Dominica Ready to Welcome the World for 26th Edition of World Creole Music Festival
By Sémaj Bernard
With a star-studded lineup, enhanced festival experiences and a strong focus on public safety, Dominica is gearing up for an unforgettable weekend of music, culture and celebration.
The excitement is building as Dominica prepares to host the 26th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), with officials, law enforcement representatives and featured artistes expressing their readiness for one of the island’s biggest entertainment events of the year.
At the WCMF 2026 press conference, held ahead of this weekend’s festivities, stakeholders highlighted the Government’s continued commitment to promoting Dominican culture, preparations to ensure a safe festival experience, and the exciting additions patrons can look forward to as the Nature Isle welcomes visitors and locals alike.
Government Reaffirms Support for WCMF and Dominican Culture
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Mr Claudius Lestrade, reaffirmed the Government of Dominica’s full support for the World Creole Music Festival, emphasizing the event’s importance in promoting the island and its rich cultural heritage.
With Dominica celebrating its 48th anniversary of Independence, Lestrade encouraged visitors from overseas to extend their stay and experience more of what the island has to offer.
He called on visitors to remain a little longer in Dominica, joining the nation in celebrating its independence through music, culture and community.
Lestrade also urged patrons to enjoy the weekend responsibly, calling for a safe and successful festival as Dominica welcomes thousands of people for the highly anticipated event.
Police Assure Patrons of Comprehensive Security Preparations
Safety remained a key focus at the press conference, with Assistant Commissioner of Police Mr Alleyne Maximea assuring the public that the Dominica Police Force is prepared for the festival weekend.
Maximea explained that the Force has developed a comprehensive security plan aimed at maintaining public safety, preventing accidents and ensuring that patrons can enjoy the festivities in a secure environment.
He noted that no incidents had been recorded during the Independence celebrations thus far and emphasized that officers are ready to implement the necessary security measures throughout WCMF.
Patrons were strongly advised to leave all weapons at home. Maximea further cautioned that even licensed firearm holders would not be permitted to enter the festival venue with their firearms.
He also appealed to the public to cooperate with police officers and follow all security instructions, underscoring that the success of the festival depends on a collective commitment to safety.
DDA Promises an Enhanced Festival Experience
Chief Executive Officer of the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), Marva Williams, highlighted the months of planning and hard work that have gone into preparing for the 26th edition of the festival.
Williams declared that the stage is set to welcome patrons for a weekend of world-class entertainment, while pointing to several enhancements designed to elevate the overall festival experience.
Among the new additions is the Bouyon Tunnel, which patrons will enter through as they make their way into the festival grounds. The feature is expected to add a distinctly Dominican touch to the arrival experience, celebrating the infectious rhythms and cultural influence of bouyon music.
The Authority has also created additional photo opportunities throughout the festival environment, catering to social media influencers and members of the general public who want to capture and share their experiences.
These enhancements reflect the festival’s continued evolution, blending live entertainment with immersive experiences that allow patrons to engage with the event beyond the stage.
Williams also reviewed the weekend’s entertainment lineup, which brings together regional and international artistes alongside Dominican talent for a diverse celebration of Creole music and culture.
Artistes Ready to Deliver Unforgettable Performances
The excitement was equally evident among the artistes set to take the WCMF stage, with performers sharing their anticipation for the weekend and what they hope to bring to audiences.
Shelly of Signal Band expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the World Creole Music Festival. Having performed in various parts of the world, he said he was especially excited to perform in his home country once again, making the appearance a meaningful opportunity to connect with Dominican audiences.
For Morielle, the festival marks a special milestone: her first performance in Dominica. She expressed happiness about the opportunity, setting the stage for a highly anticipated debut before local fans.
Local favourites Extasy also conveyed their excitement, declaring their readiness to give patrons an unforgettable experience. With the energy and showmanship associated with live festival performances, the group is looking forward to contributing to the weekend’s vibrant atmosphere.
Meanwhile, Vaughn shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming festival while giving fans something else to anticipate: the release of his new album on November 13. His appearance at WCMF offers an opportunity to connect with audiences ahead of the upcoming project.
Capleton Returns to Dominica After More Than Two Decades
One of the major talking points of the press conference was the return of internationally acclaimed Jamaican reggae and dancehall artiste Capleton, who expressed excitement about performing in Dominica again after more than two decades.
Known for his energetic performances and spiritually uplifting messages, Capleton said he was looking forward to bringing uplifting music to Dominican audiences.
His return adds another layer of anticipation to this year’s festival, offering patrons an opportunity to reconnect with an established reggae and dancehall figure whose music has resonated with audiences across generations.
With his return, alongside the festival’s diverse mix of regional and international performers, WCMF 2026 promises a weekend that celebrates the power of music to unite people across cultures
A Weekend of Music, Culture and National Pride
As the final preparations come together, the message from officials and artistes is clear: Dominica is ready.
From the Government’s continued investment in cultural promotion to the police’s emphasis on safety and the DDA’s efforts to create a more engaging festival environment, preparations for the 26th World Creole Music Festival reflect the event’s significance to the island’s tourism, entertainment and cultural industries.
For Dominicans at home and abroad, as well as visitors travelling to the Nature Isle, the festival offers an opportunity to celebrate the rhythms, traditions and creative energy that make Dominica unique.
With an exciting lineup, new festival features and the added significance of the nation’s 48th Independence anniversary, WCMF 2026 is poised to deliver another memorable chapter in Dominica’s entertainment calendar.
The stage is set, the artistes are ready, and Dominica is inviting the world to come and experience the magic of Creole music. As the festivities begin, patrons are encouraged to celebrate responsibly, cooperate with security personnel and make the most of a weekend dedicated to music, culture and national pride.