Feature: The incredible journey of reggae sun ska

In early 1998, a handful of young people set up the ‘Music Action’ association in Montalivet (33), driven by a desire to organise an event that reflected their own spirit, blending reggae, surfing and fun. In a short space of time, fuelled by boundless energy and motivation, these enthusiasts – including a certain Fred Lachaize – created the ‘Reggae Sun Ska Festival’.

This event, held on 31 July of the same year at the town’s multi-purpose hall, attracted 2,000 spectators and marked the first in a long series… Since then, this multicultural, social and community-focused festival has continued its incredible journey, filled with incredible adventures and events verging on the chaotic.

After almost 30 years in existence, the Médoc festival has had to change venues several times, reinvent itself very frequently, and cope with the vagaries of the cultural scene and the weather.... And yet, despite all this, the ‘Reggae Sun Ska’ enjoys a reputation that extends beyond the borders of the Médoc, becoming an ambassador for the region on the international stage.

Fred Lachaize, the driving force behind the project’s inception, has maintained the momentum of a story that continues to bring together volunteers and the public, just as it did at the very start of the adventure.

From 2,000 to 60,000 spectators, it took unwavering determination to turn what was meant to be just a simple evening’s event in the Médoc into something so much bigger…

Fred Lachaize tells the whole story in his own down-to-earth way.

Doors open at 7.30 pm – Refreshments and light snacks available on site.

Booking recommended.

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