Douglas Carnie, owner of NWWRF LLC and operator of the Northwest World Reggae Festival, is happy the event has landed on Mount Hood. In its 14th year overall and its second on the Mountain, Carnie noted that the festival’s focus is on “conscious” music with a positive message and creating a family friendly
environment.

“We want to be the festival that people can come out to get a high-quality
show and bring their kids,” Carnie said, noting the event does not include a
beer garden or sales of alcohol. “Sometimes it seems like we have more kids
than adults.”

The festival, with gates opening at 9 a.m. Friday July 27 and running through
Sunday, July 29, offers 20 acts, with bands originating from Africa and
England to the Pacific Northwest, including names like Tuff Lion and Zili Misik.
Carnie described the music as Roots Reggae and the festival avoids “dance
hall” music.

The event started in Eugene, where it continued for approximately 10 years
before coding changed and the search for a new venue began. Carnie first
served as a production manager but took the reins of the event and switched
it to an LLC a few years ago and now co-produces the event with Megan
Stolle.

Last year marked the first year on Mount Hood and Carnie noted that interest
has picked up with this year’s event around the corner.
“We’re definitely getting a lot more (interest),” he said, adding that they have
a long-term agreement with the landowner. “We really like this site; we’re not
going any place.”

Carnie expects approximately 1,500 people to attend this year. He added that
the event is also geared to be sustainable for the environment, with organic
food booths, biodiesel generators, a tree planted for every ticket sold and
other sustainable practices.

Carnie also noted the event includes larger camping spaces and a bigger
venue this time around.

Gates open at 9 a.m. Friday, July 27 and the event ends on 8 p.m. Sunday,
July 29, at 58800 E Marmot Road in Sandy. Camping is available (including
car and RV camping), with tickets starting at $30, children 14 and under are
free and youth 15-17 with an adult are half price. Parking is $10.

For more information, visit www.nwwrf.com or find the festival on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/NorthWestWorldReggaeFestival.