This year’s festival brings together an exciting blend of culture, rhythm, and island‑inspired energy, showcasing performers who embody the spirit of sun, surf, and good vibes from start to finish.

Taking the stage on Saturday June 6th are the Hawaiian Dancers, whose graceful hula, vibrant storytelling, and traditional island artistry create a powerful cultural heartbeat. Their performances offer a beautiful connection to Hawai‘i’s heritage and set the tone for an immersive coastal celebration.

Keeping the tropical momentum flowing on Saturday, June 6th, Lost Tropics brings their signature blend of reggae, surf rock, and breezy indie rhythms. With catchy hooks and sun‑drenched energy, their set promises the kind of feel‑good atmosphere that pairs perfectly with ocean air and golden‑hour light.

Rounding out the weekend on Sunday, June 7th with deep roots and classic island rhythm, Jah Rockaz deliver powerful reggae grooves on Sunday, June 7th, soulful harmonies, and a timeless sound that gets the whole crowd moving. Their performance brings warmth, movement, and the unmistakable pulse of roots reggae to the festival stage.

Together, these performers create a vibrant, uplifting experience that celebrates music, culture, and the coastal spirit all weekend long.

Saturday night brings a major highlight: a headlining performance by Artikal Sound System, enjoy the alternative reggae dance party that Artikal Sound System brings. A band known for their vibrant blend of island rhythms, soulful vocals, and modern pop‑leaning grooves.

Formed in 2012, Artikal Sound System has built a devoted following through their dynamic live shows, heartfelt songwriting, and genre‑bending sound. Fronted by the powerhouse voice of Logan Rex and backed by a tight, high‑energy band, they’ve become one of the most exciting acts in contemporary reggae. Their music moves effortlessly from sun‑soaked feel‑good tracks to emotionally rich anthems, all wrapped in the warm, coastal vibe that defines their style.

Their charismatic stage presence, uplifting message, and infectious rhythms make them a perfect fit for a festival rooted in sun, surf, and good times. As the evening settles in, expect a set that flows from breezy, beach‑side melodies to dance‑ready crowd favorites that light up the night. Whether you’ve been following their rise or you’re discovering them for the first time, their performance is sure to be one of the standout moments of the weekend.

Inner Circle, one of reggae’s most enduring and influential bands, will take the stage at Merritt Island Fest on Sunday, June 7, 2026, performing at 7:00 p.m. Known worldwide as the “Bad Boys of Reggae,” the group has been shaping the genre for over five decades with their signature blend of roots reggae, pop‑infused hooks, and socially conscious messages. 

Formed in Jamaica in the late 1960s, Inner Circle rose to international fame with chart‑topping hits like “Bad Boys”—a song that became a cultural phenomenon—and the irresistibly upbeat “Sweat (A La La La La Long).”

Their longevity comes from a rare combination of musicianship, charisma, and a commitment to spreading positivity through music. Over the years, they’ve toured the globe, collaborated with major artists, and earned a Grammy Award, all while maintaining the warm, feel‑good energy that defines their sound. 

Fans can expect a dynamic live show filled with classic hits, deep‑groove reggae rhythms, and the joyful spirit that has made Inner Circle a festival favorite for generations

Local restaurants from all across the Space Coast, Merritt Island, the Beaches, and Cape Canaveral are invited to participate in the Merritt Island Fest Food Court Pavilion. Each restaurant will receive 12 feet of frontage space to sell food items and offer tastings that showcase their establishment.

Live demos, surf gear showcases, family‑friendly activities, and a soundtrack that captures the spirit of the coast, Merritt Island Fest & Surf Expo is shaping up to be one of the season’s standout gatherings.