Groundation Live in Hilo: Bob Marley Tribute Show Announced for February 5th, 2026!
Get ready to feel the vibes, Big Island! We're absolutely thrilled to announce that Groundation, one of the most respected reggae bands in the world, is coming to Hilo Town Market for an unforgettable Bob Marley tribute show on February 5th, 2026. This is the kind of news that has us dancing in our flip-flops and we can barely contain our excitement!
If you've been waiting for something truly special to light up your winter, this is it. Groundation bring ing their legendary sound to our little corner of paradise? It doesn't get much better than this, folks.
Birthday highlight: This show lands on the eve of Bob Marley's 81st birthday (born February 6, 1945), making it the perfect time to honor his legacy together.
Note: This is a special one-night Groundation concert and Bob Marley tribute — this is NOT our Fri day Night Market. There will be a limited selection of vendors on site.
Who is Groundation?
For those who might not be familiar with this incredible band, let us school you real quick. Groundation isn't just any reggae band – they're the real deal. Founded in Sonoma County, California, in 1998, this group has been carrying the torch of conscious reggae music for over two decades, and they do it with a reverence and authenticity that would make Bob Marley himself proud.
What sets Groundation apart is their deep understanding of reggae's roots. This isn't some surface level imitation – these musicians have studied under reggae legends, collaborated with original Wailers members, and have dedicated their lives to preserving and evolving the conscious reggae message. Their sound blends traditional reggae rhythms with jazz influences, dub elements, and that spiritual consciousness that makes reggae more than just music – it's a movement.
The band has released numerous albums that have topped reggae charts worldwide, and their live performances are nothing short of transformative. When Groundation takes the stage, they don't just play music – they create an experience that connects hearts and souls through the universal language of reggae.
Harrison, Groundation's lead singer, is central to that magic – his soulful vocals, conscious lyrics, and commanding stage presence anchor the band's sound and energy.
Why This Show is Extra Special
A Bob Marley tribute by Groundation isn't your typical cover show. These artists understand Marley's message on a deep level – the call for unity, love, social justice, and spiritual awakening that made Bob's music timeless. When Groundation performs Marley's classics, they bring their own soulful in terpretation while honoring the original spirit that made those songs revolutionary.
Think about it – Bob Marley's music was about bringing people together, breaking down barriers, and spreading love and consciousness. Here in Hawaii, we live those values every day through our aloha spirit. Having Groundation perform this tribute right here in Hilo feels like the perfect alignment of the stars.
And let's be real – Bob Marley had a special connection to Hawaii. He spent time here, found peace in our islands, and even recorded some music during his visits. There's something magical about cele brating his legacy in a place that meant so much to him, especially with artists who truly understand his message.
The Hilo Town Market Experience
Now, let's talk about the venue – because where this show is happening makes it even more special. Hilo Town Market isn't just any concert venue; it's the heart of our community. Every Friday night, our market comes alive with local vendors, amazing food, and that genuine Hawaiian spirit that you can't find anywhere else.
Picture this: you're surrounded by the warm glow of string lights, the air filled with the aroma of local food from our amazing vendors, and then Groundation takes the stage with those iconic Bob Marley rhythms washing over everyone. The combination of world-class reggae music and authentic local culture? That's what dreams are made of.
Our market has hosted some incredible live music events, and we've seen how music brings our community together. But this Groundation show is going to be on another level entirely. We're talking about internationally acclaimed musicians performing in an intimate, community setting where you can actually feel the music and connect with the artists.
What to Expect on February 5th
Mark your calendars now because February 5th, 2026 is going to be one of those nights you'll be talking about for years. Groundation's Bob Marley tribute will feature all the classics you know and love – "One Love," "No Woman No Cry," "Get Up Stand Up," "Three Little Birds," and so many more.
But here's the thing about Groundation – they don't just play the songs, they reimagine them with their signature style while keeping the soul intact.
Expect to hear those familiar melodies infused with Groundation's jazz-influenced arrangements, their tight horn section adding depth to every song, and vocals that capture both the power and the gentleness of Marley's message. Whether you're a longtime reggae fan or someone just discovering the genre, this performance will move you.
The beauty of hosting this at Hilo Town Market means you'll also get to experience everything else we offer. We'll have a limited selection of local vendors on site, so you can grab some delicious local food, browse unique handmade crafts, and soak in that authentic Big Island atmosphere before, during, and after the show.
The Bob Marley Legacy in Hawaii
Bob Marley's connection to Hawaii runs deeper than most people realize. He found solace in our islands, and you can hear Hawaii's influence in some of his later works. The laid-back island vibe, the spiritual connection to nature, and the multicultural harmony that defines Hawaii all resonated with Marley's vision of "One Love."
Having a tribute show here in Hilo feels particularly meaningful because this is where that spirit lives strongest. Our town embodies so much of what Marley sang about – different cultures coming together, respect for the land, and that peaceful, loving energy that makes everything better.
Supporting Live Music in Hilo
By coming out to this show, you're not just treating yourself to an incredible night of music – you're supporting live music in our community. Shows like this prove that Hilo can attract world-class talent, and every ticket sold sends a message that our town values and supports the arts.
We've been working hard to bring more amazing events to Hilo Town Market, and the response from our community has been incredible. Our Friday Night Market has become a beloved weekly tradition, and special events like this Groundation show are what make living on the Big Island so special.
Getting Ready for the Show
While we're still finalizing all the details (ticket information, specific showtimes, and additional performers), we wanted to get this announcement out early because we know this show is going to sell out fast. Keep an eye on our events page for all the latest updates.
In the meantime, start getting yourself ready! Dust off those dancing shoes, practice your best reggae moves, and maybe dive into some Bob Marley and Groundation music to get in the zone. This is going to be one of those magical nights where everything comes together perfectly – great music, amazing community, and that special Hawaii energy that makes everything better.
The Perfect February Night
February 5th, 2026 – put it in your calendar right now. Whether you're a local who never misses a good show or a visitor lucky enough to be on the Big Island at the perfect time, this Groundation Bob Marley tribute at Hilo Town Market is going to be unforgettable.
Come early, stay late, and get ready to feel the love. Because when Groundation starts playing those Bob Marley classics under the Hawaiian stars, surrounded by our amazing community and the spirit of aloha, you're going to understand why music really is the universal language.
One love, Big Island. See you at the show!
