(Courtesy photo)
Israel Vibration and the Roots Radics will kick off the 2022 Evenings at Elings family friendly reggae series.
In 2021, Evenings at Elings featured reggae legends playing concerts at Santa Barbara’s Elings Park in the fall. It was the first live concert at Elings Park, and brought the community together while welcoming guests of all ages.
This year’s event will feature a spring and fall series with six dates set that will be headlined by national touring artists.
First up will be the Israel Vibration and the Roots Radics, 5-10 p.m. Friday, March 11.
Hailing from Kingston, Jamaica, Israel Vibration was formed in the 1970s and continues to tour worldwide. Joining them on stage will be local reggae band The Kicks, and Black Elk (Nathan Harrington).
“It’s an honor to be able to bring Israel Vibration back to Santa Barbara,” said En Fuego Events co-owner Andres Nuño. “They are among the most legendary reggae bands in the world, and we can’t wait to have them right here.”
“For us, Evenings at Elings created a new outdoor music opportunity that allowed guests to sprawl out, bring their children, and dance the night away at one of the most beautiful locations in Santa Barbara,” Nuño said.
Also headlining this years Evenings at Elings series will be KBong, Friday, April 22; Pato Banton, Friday, Aug. 26; and Don Carlos, Friday, Sept. 16. Other performance dates (artists to be announced) are Fridays, May 13 and Oct. 21.
KJEE’s Winston “The Cool Ruler” will emcee the series throughout the year. The series benefits the Elings Park Foundation.
Attendees can bring out blankets and lawn chairs. Firestone Walker Brewing Co. beer, Cali Squeeze seltzer, Porch Pounder Wine and Flying Embers Kombucha are available for purchase, and street fair vendors and food trucks are on site.
“For me, the magic is all about two words: kids free,” said Dean Noble, Elings Park executive director. “Evenings at Elings is the perfect way for families to relax on the grass and enjoy music while the sun sets.”
Israel Vibration general admission tickets are $40, and kids under 12 enter for free. For tickets and more information, visit EveningsatElings.com. Tickets at the door will be $50. Doors open at 4 p.m. and music begins at 5:30 p.m.