This weekend’s forecast predicts absolutely glorious weather (sunny with highs in the mid-80s), just in time for the annual Austin Reggae Festival at Auditorium Shores, Friday afternoon through Sunday evening. Since 1994, this mid-sized fest gathers reggae music lovers of all ages to downtown Austin to celebrate spring and one love. While most casual listeners may think only of Bob Marley, reggae music has a storied history and culture. With reggae easily crossing over to other genres and heavily influencing many other music types such as ska, hip hop, dub and more, the festival will host bands from a wide range of locations and backgrounds.

Saturday and Sunday headliners feature two big reggae acts: St. Lucia’s roots reggae superstar Taj Weekes on Saturday followed by Israel Vibration & the Roots Radics Band on Sunday. Also playing the main stage of the festival are local dub/reggae group Grimy Styles, Mau Mau Chaplains, Cumbia infused Cinco Doce and many many more. This year’s festival also welcomes the return of “Charlie’s Dub Corner”, showcasing reggae, dancehall, and dubstep DJs and performers on a second stage, courtesy of Charlie’s Records in Buda, TX.

The 2010 fest helped feed over 650,000 families in Central Texas through the portion of ticket proceeds donated to the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas. So while you’re basking in the sun and jamming to some fantastic tunes, you’ll also be helping out those less fortunate. Gates open at 3pm on Friday, 11am on Saturday and Sunday. Three-day passes cost $35, while single day tickets are $12.50 in advance, $15 at the festival gates; kids under 12 are free with a paying parent, but dogs should stay at home.