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July 28, 2024 by Mikey Rhude

This year’s ska family reunion known as Supernova International Ska Festival is quickly approaching, and rudies around the world are finalizing plans to attend the 10th anniversary of the ska extravaganza.

Beginning the second weekend in September, the three-day outdoor festival is the largest ska gathering in the United States, and ripe with the newest ska and rocksteady bands, old favorites, reunions, and afterparties. There is something for ska fans of every age.

Three days, 30 hours, 38 bands, and eight countries! The Supernova International Ska Festival will be held on the beaches of historic Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia September 13th through the 15th.

The party kicks off with the Supernova Moonstomp Gala on the night of September 12th. The special charity event at The American Theatre is dedicated to supporting music education in the U.S. and Jamaica.

This year they are proud to honor ska pioneers The Toasters and celebrate their profound impact on the ska scene. The gala will feature an exclusive museum exhibition showcasing never-before-seen photos and videos from The Toasters’ legendary career, along with performances, captivating stories, and interactive fan Q&As.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to step into the history of ska, enjoy an evening of celebration, and contribute to a great cause. Celebrate, learn, and support the future of music education – all in one night!

The main event begins September 13th with headliners The Slackers, and Roy Ellis from Symarip backed by the dirty reggae of The Aggrolites.

Saturday’s top acts include an Operation Ivy set with punk pioneer Laura Jane Grace backed by Philly ska punks, Catbite, the reunion of third wavers Skavoovie and The Epitones, and Latin ska powerhouse from Nuevo Leon, Mexico, Inspector.

Sunday is setup to be the height of the festival with performances by Hey-Smith from Japan, The Planet Smashers from Canada, The Pietasters from Washington DC, and two-tone legends The Selecter will top off an extraordinary weekend.

A special treat for East Coast ska fans as Big D and the Kids Table will also be in the house. By far one of the best live acts you can see anywhere on the planet.

Make your plans now for the skankinest ska festival on the planet. Pack your dancing shoes and your sunscreen and get ready to meet friends – old and new – and have the rockinest rocksteady time of your life.

TO FOLLOW

SID 240731 | TRACI TURNER | EDITOR