The Wailers to headline People's Festival

Ryan Cormier | The News Journal

Show Caption Hide Caption People's Festival returns to Wilmington Rain didn't dampen the soul of the People's Fest in Wilmington in 2016.

With Bob Marley unavailable to perform at the Wilmington music festival created in his honor, organizers have turned to the next best thing: his old band.

The Wailers, which features original members such as Aston "Family Man" Barrett, will headline the 23rd annual People's Festival in the city's Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park, organizers will reveal Monday afternoon.

An expanded 40th anniversary release of 1977's Marley/Wailers album "Exodus" was released last week.

Also to perform: Jamaica-born reggae artist Tanya Stephens, eight-piece New Orleans funk act The Soul Rebels, 26-year-old Marley grandson and Jamaican reggae singer Jo Mersa Marley and Wilmington rapper Richard Raw.

Tickets for the Saturday, July 29, festival are on sale at peoplesfestival.com. Passes are $28 in advance or $40 at the gate.

VIP passes, which include front stage access, private restrooms, a private cash bar and more, cost $75.

The festival, created in tribute to Marley, a former part-time Wilmington resident, draws several thousand music fans to the Riverfront each year.

Contact Ryan Cormier of The News Journal at rcormier@delawareonline.com or (302) 324-2863. Follow him on Facebook (@ryancormier), Twitter (@ryancormier) and Instagram (@ryancormier).

IF YOU GO

What: 23rd annual People's Festival

When: Saturday, July 29

Where: Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park, Water Street between Market and French streets

Acts: The Wailers, Tanya Stephens, The Soul Rebels, Jo Mersa Marley and Richard Raw

Cost: $28-$75

Information and tickets: peoplesfestival.com