Nestled just south of Sarasota, between Tampa/St. Pete and Fort Myers, Venice, Florida, may not yet be a household name for music lovers. But that’s changing—and fast. Thanks to Golden Shellback Media (GBack Media) and their brainchild, Reggae Nights on the Island, this Gulf Coast gem is emerging as a new hotspot for live music. And after the wild success of the 2024 event, this annual festival is primed to be a magnet for travelers craving sun, sand, and soul-soothing beats.
A Rhythm That Defied the Storms2024 was a year that put even the most seasoned Floridians to the test. Hurricane Helene loomed right before, threatening to wash away the anticipation. Then, as if on cue, Hurricane Milton followed, creating a tense lull in the air. But in true Venice fashion, the city proved that it takes more than a couple of storms to dampen the spirit of Reggae Nights. Between the storms, an unexpected pocket of sunshine opened up—a glorious 16 hours of clear skies—just long enough for the festival to happen.
As Paul Kaldy, founder of Golden Shellback Media, wittily remarked, “There were only about 16 hours of sunlight in Florida those three weeks, but we squeezed in Reggae Nights. The fans, vendors, and the bands brought everything they had, and the vibe? Absolutely electric.”
That window of sunshine wasn’t just a meteorological miracle; it felt like destiny. The energy was undeniable. For the crowd that gathered at Centennial Park on October 5th, this wasn’t just another music festival. It was a celebration of resilience, community, and—above all—the healing power of music.
Venice, Florida: The City Where Good Vibes Are Greater Than Any StormVenice isn’t just about its pristine beaches or quaint downtown anymore. With its growing reputation as a go-to destination for live music events, it’s quickly becoming a must-visit spot for travelers seeking more than just the typical Gulf Coast experience. At Reggae Nights, that Venice charm was on full display: palm trees swayed to the smooth sounds of live reggae, while local food vendors served up flavors that were as vibrant as the music itself. The town’s famous haunts—like TJ Carney’s, Daiquiri Deck, and the Dockside Waterfront Grill—buzzed with pre- and post-show revelers, all soaking in that island-like energy that Venice is known for.
And, of course, the sense of community was palpable. “They say music heals,” Kaldy noted. “On October 5th, we were handing out the best medication—good vibes.”
While the 2024 edition of Reggae Nights is still fresh in everyone’s memory, Golden Shellback Media is already setting its sights on 2025. “We’re already working on next year’s event,” Kaldy confirmed. “Go ahead, put a reminder in your phone for the first weekend of October. This festival is becoming a tradition—one that celebrates diversity, culture, and everything that makes Venice, Florida, so special.”
Venice, affectionately dubbed “The City on the Gulf,” is more than just a scenic stop along Florida’s coastline. It’s a place where music isn’t just played—it’s lived. And Reggae Nights is quickly turning into one of its signature events, one where the tunes are as warm as the sunsets and the good vibes are always in abundance.
Plan Your Trip: Reggae Nights AwaitsMark your calendar for October 5th, 2025—and every first weekend of October after that. Venice, FL, is ready to welcome you with open arms, endless music, and a community spirit that can weather any storm. Whether you’re coming from Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota, or beyond, this festival is your perfect excuse to plan that weekend getaway.
So pack your bags, book your tickets, and head to the island city where reggae and sunsets will forever be in sync. Reggae Nights on the Island is more than a music festival—it’s a state of mind. And Venice, Florida, is calling.
Local Favorites to Hit While You’re in Town:- TJ Carney’s: A Venice staple for good eats and even better drinks.
- Daiquiri Deck Island of Venice: Cool off with a frozen daiquiri after a day of dancing.
From Venice Beach to Centennial Park, this Gulf Coast town is the perfect spot to get away, unwind, and experience the unique culture of Southwest Florida—with a reggae beat pulsing in the background.
Ready to experience it for yourself? The island awaits. See you in 2025!