First Namosi Music Festival to debut this Saturday

The first-ever Namosi Music Festival will debut this Saturday, bringing some of Fiji's top musicians and cultural performers to the misty mountains of Namosi as the Namosi Eco Retreat celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Set beside the Wainikoroiluva River, the all-day festival will run from 10am to 10pm and feature live performances, traditional entertainment, Fijian cuisine and riverside experiences.

Festival organisers said the event would include free return transport from Suva and village-style meals as part of the ticket package.

The line-up features eight acts, including Queen of Vude Laisa Vulakoro, Rhythms Fiji, DJ Skitz, VOU from Nadi, Voqa Kei Lewasei from Namosi, traditional meke performances and Sweet Sensation.

Namosi Eco Retreat director Daniel Jason Sovatabua said the festival marked a milestone for the business and the local community.

"We are so excited to celebrate our first 10 years of business by bringing together incredible Fijian musicians and performers, Fijian foods and culture, into the Namosi mountains for an unforgettable day of live bands and entertainment," he said.

TICKETS

Organisers said the remaining tickets were now on sale.

A day-trip package costs $149 and includes return transport from Suva, festival entry and lunch. Children aged two to 14 pay $45. As part of a flash sale running this week, day-trip tickets will also be available at the gate for $99, while groups of 10 receive one free ticket.

An overnight camping package costs $199 and includes return transport from Suva, festival entry, camping (bring your own tent), lunch, dinner and breakfast.

For larger groups, a bure package is available for $1,200, accommodating up to six people and including transport, meals and festival entry.

Tickets are available through Ticketmax or directly from Namosi Eco Retreat.

Mr Sovatabua said the event aimed to offer more than a traditional music festival.

"There are festivals and then there are experiences that stay with you long after the music fades. The Reggae by the River music festival 2026 invites visitors on a journey that blends music, culture, nature, and community in one extraordinary setting," he said.

Festival-goers will also have the opportunity to swim in the river, enjoy traditional Fijian food and cultural performances, and gather around bamboo bonfires as the mountain valley transforms into an evening concert venue.

Day-trip, overnight camping and bure accommodation packages remain available, with organisers encouraging people to secure the remaining tickets before the event.