Smooth grooving and jamming took place at Reggae at Smooth Rapids over the weekend. 

Friday’s night lineup included several sets of the band Silas with the Joe Harvey Band, Natty’s Common Roots, Plainview Vibes and Elusive Groove taking the stage to deliver funky reggae which enticed the crowd.

Dancing was prevalent throughout the campgrounds, and the poi and hula hoop spinning entertained the crowd while attendees also enjoyed the jams coming from the bands who poured out reggae music, which was perfect for dancing by the river.

The lights and decorations were set up throughout the Smooth Rapids property, producing the feeling of being in an enchanted forest. Although Smooth Rapids is in the city limits, Reggae at Smooth Rapids feels as though it is a completely separate entity, far from commercial boundaries. The festival is both peaceful and exciting.

The many talented vendors, creating all types of crafts, enamored many festival-goers. One of the vendors attending the festival was a glass-blower, Sara Shields, from North Carolina. 

“I love the energy of the festival and making custom glass pieces, as well as selling them to this great group of people,” says Shields.

People from several different walks of life come to the festival to display their crafts and arts and enjoy the music presented by Reggae at Smooth Rapids.

Saturday contained a morning yoga routine and the lullaby song played through bowls by Trechia James of Stonewood Bluff and Amphitheater. Beginning at 1 p.m., the music rekindled, keeping the audience rocking and grooving, bringing the attendees together with joy and dancing to celebrate the end of summer, the beauty of nature and the feeling of community.

Altogether, the Reggae at Smooth Rapids weekend was a success with talented musical performances, bringing the crowd together, creative vendors selling their wares and an overall good time. The event was a success among locals and those from the surrounding areas to come together, enjoy themselves and celebrate the music.