35th Rastaversary! Reggae Fest 2026 at The Historic Trempealeau Hotel – Trempealeau, WI

About the Artists:
Dred I Dread

Dred I Dread, widely recognized as the “Minneapolis Reggae Legends,” is a Minneapolis, Minnesota–based roots reggae band delivering powerful messages of love, unity, and social justice. Formed in 1998, the band quickly made its mark, earning “Best Local Reggae Band” by City Pages Magazine in 1999 and later “Best Reggae Band in Minnesota” by the Minnesota Music Academy in 2000 and 2001.

The band features a diverse and international lineup of talented musicians from Jamaica, New Orleans, Minnesota, and Türkiye. This rich cultural heritage is deeply reflected in their sound—blending authentic Jamaican reggae traditions with influences from jazz, blues, and world music to create a style that is both timeless and contemporary.

Dred I Dread released their debut album Listen to the Revolution in March 1999, produced by renowned reggae keyboardist Tony “Asher” Brissett, a former member of Black Uhuru. Over the years, the band has shared stages with internationally acclaimed artists such as Chronixx, The Wailers, Yellowman, Israel Vibration, The Meditations, De La Soul, Jimmy Cliff, Sister Carol, Third World, Wailing Souls, and Collie Buddz. Their studio collaborations include reggae legends such as Earl “Chinna” Smith, Tony Asher, Flabba Holt, Dean Fraser, and Nambo Robinson, and they have proudly performed at major festivals and events in Jamaica.

A standout moment in the band’s history includes their performance at the Twelve Tribes of Israel Headquarters in Kingston, Jamaica, during Haile Selassie’s Coronation Celebration (November 2, 2017), sharing the stage with Chronixx and Earl “Chinna” Smith—an iconic cultural and spiritual gathering at the heart of reggae tradition.

Led by Rawle G (lead vocals) and Peewee Dread (vocals and percussion), Dred I Dread’s live performances are known for their energy, passion, and deep connection with audiences. Guitarist Serdar G, originally from Ankara, Türkiye, brings a unique global perspective, blending reggae with elements of jazz, blues, calypso, and even Turkish music.

Backing the front line is a tight, dynamic rhythm section featuring Paul Kammeyer on bass, Adam Cole on drums, and Alex Cole (Cole Brothers/Mindsettaz) on keyboards. Together, they create a deep, groove-driven foundation that defines the band’s signature sound and delivers a rich, immersive live experience.

Rooted in the influence of reggae greats such as Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Peter Tosh, Aswad, and Black Uhuru, Dred I Dread continues to carry the torch of conscious reggae music forward. With over two decades of experience, the band remains committed to uplifting communities and bringing positive vibrations to audiences around the world.

TUGG
These artists do an amazing job channeling tropical grooves and breezy melodies and they are a top draw in the Midwest and beyond. TUGG boasts an impressive resume of rubbing shoulders with reggae heavyweights. From shows with Ziggy Marley, Barrington Levy and Slightly Stoopid to Tours with The Wailers, The Dirty Heads, and PASSAFIRE… TUGG continues to prove why they’re a star of the alternative reggae/ska scene. All of the band’s last 5 releases have debuted in the Top 50 of the iTunes Reggae Chart. Their EP “Home Brew” climbed all the way to #2 and spent 3 weeks in the Hot 100 iTunes Reggae Album Chart. Their album “Mazes” was recorded and produced by PASSAFIRE’S Ted Bowne.

DJ Trichrome
The ‘Vibesetta’ has music flowing through his veins…Both local and global, Trichrome has been rockin’ the decks and spreading his vibrations throughout the universe for decades. He maintains his own niche in the world of digital media with REAL VINYL! Trichrome started his career as a DJ in 1988 alongside Pacesetter Sound System. He went on to co-found Three Kings Sound System in Minneapolis and currently plays with First Settlement Sound System. Trichrome has been a regular fixture in the 311 scene since he joined the Summer Unity Tour with Soulman and Sublime with Rome. He’s shared the stage with many local, national and international recording artists and adds his own unique energy which sets the vibe and energizes the crowd.

Mike Oregano
Truly a unique act unlike anything yet, Mike Oregano has fully embraced both the aesthetic and sonic details of the “One Man Band” concept. Performing in a unique Reggae/Hip Hop/Jazz style, he is sure to turn heads wherever he is jammin’. He uses a custom built drum set, as well as an array of fully intuitive effect pedals complete with: loopers, bass splits, synthesizers, etc. He records the rhythm (guitar and bass) on the spot, and layers over it live with drums while singing and soloing on his guitar simultaneously.

Tickets
$20 advance/$25 day of show and are currently limited to 750. You may purchase tickets here or at The Hotel. All ages welcome. Those 18 and under must be accompanied by a paid adult. 12 and under are free, 13 – 17 pay $10 at the gate, 18 and over require adult tickets.

No refunds. Gates open at 1pm. This is an outdoor, rain or shine event.

About the Venue
This relaxed venue overlooks the Mississippi, with fabulous sunsets and a warm, friendly vibe. Entry is through the Main Street gate of Hotel yard. Your name will be on our will-call list if you purchased your tickets here or online. Bring photo ID for proof of ticket purchase and consumption of alcohol. Sorry, pets are not allowed on grounds during large shows. No food or beverage of any kind may be brought in.
Food and beverage is available for sale outdoors from The Hotel, Taco Town and 2 Scoops & a Bar. If you have foldable chairs in sacks, keep bags in the car to speed up entry (and you wont lose them). All bags and blankets will be checked. No coolers are allowed.

An ATM is located at the entrance. Only cash is accepted for drink and ticket purchases during the festival.

Vendors
Clothing, arts and crafts will be available for sale. If you are interested in being a vendor, email: amy@trempealeauhotel.com

Restaurant

The indoor bar and restaurant will be closed Saturday June 6th.