Returning to South London with its signature vibrance, City Splash continues to be one of the few festivals that truly understands how music, culture and education can exist side by side. Rooted in the sounds of reggae, dancehall, Afrobeats and jungle, the day offered far more than just entertainment. It was an open invitation to celebrate heritage, embrace community and deepen our understanding of the histories that have shaped these genres.
As the gates opened and the sun began to show itself, the crowd eased in gradually, soaking up the atmosphere and exploring the independent stalls that brought colour and character to the grounds. Vendors offered everything from African print handbags and bold Jamaican T-shirts to intricately made children’s clothes, creating a warm and welcoming marketplace that felt personal and rooted in culture. The smell of jerk seasoning, peppered stews and sweet plantains drifted through the air, wrapping itself around the basslines coming from every corner of the site. From the very beginning, the mood felt joyful and open, as families, friends and first-timers gathered to share in something much bigger than just a line-up.
One of the most unique and grounding parts of the festival was the Rastafari Reasoning Corner, a returning feature that offered thoughtful conversation and community dialogue throughout the day. In a quieter space set back from the stages, speakers explored topics ranging from Rastafari culture and spirituality to Black liberation movements and the political roots of reggae. It was a rare chance to sit, listen and learn in the midst of a high-energy environment, and it made it clear that City Splash has always been just as committed to education as it is to celebration.
The performances themselves carried that same sense of purpose and pride. Ms. Dynamite delivered an explosive set packed with power and intention, with the crowd locked in from the very first beat. At one point she paused to speak about the younger generation and the importance of embracing cultural heritage, a moment that resonated deeply and reminded everyone why she remains such a vital presence in British music. The field was alive with movement, as people skanked, shouted lyrics and moved together in unfiltered joy.
Later in the day, Teejay sent the crowd into a frenzy with his track Drift, a track that had people dancing without hesitation, hands in the air and energy soaring. Following that, Valiant stepped in with equal presence, delivering a set full of charisma and rhythm that kept the energy high and the crowd fully engaged. His command of the stage and connection with the audience made it one of the standout performances of the day.
What sets City Splash apart is not only the quality of its musical programming but the way it honours the cultures that birthed these sounds. From the food to the fashion, the conversations to the crowd, every detail felt intentional and rooted in respect. In a city as fast-paced and ever-changing as London, this festival created a space to pause, reflect and remember what it means to gather, to share and to celebrate the sounds of resistance and resilience. City Splash 2025 reminded us that music is more than just rhythm and melody. It’s memory, movement, and above all, it is a way of keeping culture alive.
More more info on City Splash go to www.city-splash.com.
Words by Ama Samra
Photography Jovan Bassral
