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Torquay Tropical returns bigger than ever for 2026

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 Torbay Council 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 Torbay Council, 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.