Two Days. One Seafront. A World of Rhythm.

Following a successful debut last year, Torquay Tropical is set to return to the English Riviera this September, expanding to a full two-day festival and bringing an even bigger celebration of global music, carnival culture and shared experiences to Torquay's seafront. The event builds on the success of its inaugural year and will once again transform the waterfront with colour, creativity and community spirit.

Taking place in Banjo Gardens and Princess Gardens on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September, the free festival will offer two days of live music, dance, food, drink and family-friendly entertainment in a vibrant seafront setting. Running from 11am to 8pm each day, the event will celebrate a rich mix of local, regional and international talent, bringing together musical traditions and carnival influences from around the world.

Developed by Global Carnivalz with funding support from Arts Council England, the festival aims to showcase exceptional talent from across the South West while creating opportunities for audiences to experience cultures, music and traditions from around the world. At the heart of the festival is a shared ambition between Global Carnivalz, Global Local and us to bring people together through music, culture and celebration while creating a platform for emerging and established artists.

Brought to Torquay by Continental Drifts in collaboration with Chris Tofu, Pax Nindi, Global Local and us, the festival draws on decades of experience delivering internationally renowned music, arts and carnival events across the UK and beyond.

Visitors can expect an exciting mix of reggae, salsa, soca, Afrobeat, Latin rhythms, steel pan, roots music, global grooves and carnival sounds throughout the weekend, alongside a variety of food and drink offerings from local and regional traders. The expanded 2026 programme promises an immersive experience filled with music, dance, discovery and cultural exchange.

A highlight of this year's programme is the involvement of Chris Tofu, founder of Continental Drifts and one of the UK's leading champions of global music and festival culture, alongside Pax Nindi, the acclaimed Zimbabwean musician, broadcaster and cultural ambassador whose work has introduced audiences across the UK to African music and cultural traditions.

Headlining the festival is legendary reggae vocalist Earl 16 (Earl Daley), one of the most respected voices in roots reggae. Originally from Jamaica, Earl 16 has enjoyed a career spanning more than five decades, working alongside some of reggae's most influential producers and artists. Renowned for his distinctive vocals and conscious roots sound, he remains a celebrated figure within the international reggae community and continues to perform to audiences around the world.

The music line-up includes:

• Sam Redmore
• Earl 16
• Chris Tofu
• Pax Nindi
• Hiphoppotamus & Friends
• Los Costureros
• Malavita
• Newtown Roots

As well as live performances, visitors can enjoy food and drink inspired by the flavours of the Caribbean and beyond. Local businesses will play a key role in the festival experience, with Bays Brewery operating the event bars, Offshore Bar and Kitchen providing food concessions, and The Jerk Yard, a popular Paignton-based Caribbean street food business, serving authentic Caribbean cuisine throughout the weekend.

Councillor Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture and Events at Torbay Council, said: "Following a fantastic first year, we're delighted to welcome Torquay Tropical back to the English Riviera in an expanded two-day format. The festival brings something unique to our events programme, celebrating music, culture and community from around the world while helping attract visitors and support local businesses. Events such as this play an important role in enhancing Torbay's reputation as a vibrant year-round destination."

Chris Tofu, Festival Director, said: "We're excited to bring Torquay Tropical back for a second year and to expand the event into a full weekend festival. Our vision is to create a celebration of global music, carnival culture and community that is accessible to everyone.

''Thanks to support from Arts Council England and our partners, we're able to showcase exceptional artists while creating opportunities for people to experience different cultures through music, food, dance and shared celebration. We're looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors alike for what promises to be a colourful and unforgettable weekend by the sea."

Torquay Tropical forms part of Torbay Council's ongoing commitment to supporting a diverse programme of events that enhance the visitor experience, celebrate culture and contribute to the local economy.

Entry is free and visitors are encouraged to make a weekend of it and experience everything the English Riviera has to offer.