Sidmouth Coastal Community Hub (SCCH), the team behind the popular Sidmouth Sea Fest, has announced the highly anticipated return of Caribbean Night. Making its comeback as part of the grassroots music programme Sea Spots Amplified, this vibrant celebration of music, dance, and community is the afterparty marking the finale of the Sidmouth Folk Festival.
Historically an annual fixture, Caribbean Night was a beloved cultural landmark—a chance for locals and visitors alike to let their hair down and celebrate after a busy festival week. This year’s revival serves as a pilot to re-establish the night as an annual tradition, diversifying the region's musical landscape with a focus on Afro-Caribbean sounds, including Reggae, Dub, and Steel Bands.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
- Time: 4:00 PM – 11:30 PM (Live acts conclude at 11:00 PM, followed by late-night vibes until 11:30 PM)
- Venue: The Tythe Barn, Thorn Golf Centre, Salcombe Regis
- Admission: A limited number of Early Bird Tickets are available to buy via ticket tailor https://buytickets.at/sidmouthcoastalcommunityhub/2248716
A Stellar Lineup and Island Flavours
Set against the beautiful backdrop of the oak-framed Tythe Barn at Thorn Park, the event promises an unforgettable night of music rooted in messages of peace, hope, and unity. The spectacular lineup features:
- Dappa Don & the Playaz – Reggae legends bringing authentic roots rhythms.
- The Hempolics – Delivering a fresh, infectious blend of dub and soul fusion.
- Pan Nation – A dynamic steel band performing uplifting calypso roots.
- DJ SUV – Spinning classic reggae sounds.
- DJ Sasha Steppa – Coming down from Bristol, this powerhouse sound system dub and roots DJ is also a renowned pioneer supporting women in the music industry.
Alongside the music, attendees can sample authentic Caribbean flavours with catering including Caribbean Fix and The Prawn Cocktail Bar, complemented by a Caribbean Can Bar.
Nurturing East Devon’s "Festival Coast"
The event is part of SCCH’s broader mission to champion grassroots music, boost local venues, and enrich the cultural ecology of East Devon. Caribbean Night joins an impressive regional calendar that includes Sea Fest, the International Jazz and Blues Festival, Sidmouth Folk Festival, Sidmouth Fringe Sessions, Budleigh Music Festival, Seaton Soul, Exmouth Festival, and Sidyfest.
Festival Director Louise Cole expressed her excitement for the revival:
"We have often talked about putting on a Caribbean Night event, and this year we decided to make it happen through our grassroots music project funded by Arts Council England. Both Covid and the Cost of Living Crisis have had a massive impact on music venues and the cost of producing events. We recognise the importance of music of all genres in our lives—people remember the gigs they were at, the connections they made, and the stories they retell. Culturally and emotionally, music connects us, so we hope people will support the event, come dance, and create more shared memories with us."
Organisers Louise Cole, Coco Hodgkinson, and Tara Greifenberg aim to use this year's pilot to gauge community support and look forward to expanding the event's offerings for both locals and tourists in the years to come.
Transport & Accessibility
To ensure hassle-free access to the venue, a dedicated shuttle bus service will operate to and from the venue from Sid Road. For those choosing to drive, on-site parking is fully available at Thorn Golf Centre.
The event is supported by Arts Council England, organisers are also currently looking for event sponsors.
For tickets and more information, please visit or follow Sidmouth Sea Fest on social media, please get in touch info@sidmouthcoastalcommunityhub.org
