SandZ Caribbean Music Festival New York City 2025: What You Need to Know
If your idea of summer in the city includes bass-heavy rhythms, bold flavors, and nonstop movement, block off Sunday, June 29, on your calendar. The SandZ Caribbean Music Festival is coming back to New York City this 2025, and it’s not your average afternoon in the park.
Here’s what to know before you step into a sea of island music and urban style.
Everything You Need to Know About SandZ Festival NYC 2025
Ticket & General Information
- Date: Sunday, June 29, 2025
- Time: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM (EST)
- Location: NYC (Venue TBA – past editions leaned toward open-air waterfront spots)
- Age Restriction: 21+ only (ID required at entry)
- Tickets:
- Tier 1 General Admission: $80 (through June 16 or until sold out)
- Group Packages:
- SandZ Braff (4 guests + table + 2 bottles): $800
- SandZ Flexx (5 guests + 3 bottles): $1,100
- SandZ Storm (6 guests + 4 bottles): $1,400
- All ticket tiers include mixed drinks and cocktails.
Tickets are sold through TicketGateway.com and are non-refundable, rain or shine. Table packages are the only way to reserve VIP seating.
Who’s Performing?
The festival’s biggest announcement so far is Jamaican DJ Skillibeng. If you’ve been following the dancehall scene, you already know what to expec: hard lyrics, commanding presence, and a crowd that moves as much as the artist.
The full lineup hasn’t been made public yet, but organizers promise more names across genres like soca, afrobeats, and reggae in the weeks ahead. If past events are any clue, expect a mix of DJs and live performances throughout the afternoon.
Follow updates on Instagram or Threads at @sandzfestival for future announcements.
What the Day Will Feel Like
This isn’t a sit-down concert. It’s built for movement, style, and open air. Here’s what to expect from the vibe:
- Sound: Dancehall, reggae, soca, and Caribbean-inspired house and fusion sets from DJs and performers
- Drinks: Included with every ticket—expect cocktail bars and mixers ready for the heat
- Dress Code: Think breathable—linens, tanks, tees, shorts. You’ll see Caribbean flags, color blocking, and statement sunglasses everywhere
- Crowd: Lively, social, and stylish. People come from across the tri-state area and even fly in for the festival
Don’t be surprised if you spend more time dancing than standing.
Getting Ready: Your SandZ Packing List
What to Bring
- Lightweight clothing
- Closed-toe shoes (for safety + dancing)
- Sunscreen
- Government-issued ID
- Crossbody bag or belt pouch
- Refillable water bottle (plastic or metal only)
- Portable phone charger
What to Leave Behind
- Large bags or backpacks
- Outside food or beverages
- Glass bottles
- Professional camera equipment
- Anything you wouldn’t take through airport security
Security checks are enforced, and re-entry may not be allowed—so come prepared.
Transportation Tips (Until Venue Is Announced)
Though the exact location hasn’t been posted yet, past events suggest a space like Under the K Bridge Park or similar open venues. Regardless, here are ways to plan ahead:
- Subway: Expect the venue to be close to a major line. Pre-load your MetroCard or OMNY.
- Rideshare: Schedule your drop-off away from expected traffic zones—festival areas tend to crowd quickly.
- Biking or Scooters: Only bring them if the venue lists parking availability.
- On Foot: Comfortable shoes are a must. Paths may include uneven ground or gravel.
Ticket Strategy: How to Buy Smart
If you haven’t bought tickets yet, don’t wait. Here’s how to play it:
- Tier 1 offers a solid deal with drink access—act before June 16 or risk price jumps.
- Tables for groups are worth considering if you’re going with friends. They give you space to regroup, stash bags, and enjoy bottle service.
- Refund policy: None. Only commit if your schedule’s clear.
Follow Updates Before the Event
Stay in the loop by following SandZ on social platforms. The final venue, full artist lineup, and any schedule changes will go out via:
- Threads
- TicketGateway event page
Turn on notifications if you don’t want to miss last-minute changes or surprise guest reveals.
After the Festival
The music wraps by 7:00 PM—but that doesn’t mean the night’s over. Many attendees keep the rhythm going with post-festival dinners, linkups, or nearby bar meetups. Some years, unofficial after-parties pop up in places like Brooklyn or the Lower East Side. If you’re looking to keep going, watch the SandZ channels for any hints.
Final Thoughts
SandZ 2025 is shaping up to be a standout Sunday in New York’s event calendar. You won’t find another place this summer where reggae basslines, dancehall energy, and soca rhythms collide with a city skyline like this.
Just know the essentials: grab your ticket early, keep your packing simple, and pace yourself once the drinks start flowing. The rest? Let the music handle it.
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