The Pacific Crown Hotel’s waterfront venue in Honiara came alive on Saturday night as the 2025 Bonfire Festival overcame a quiet start to deliver a vibrant celebration of Pacific musical extravaganza.
Although the early hours saw sparse crowd number and a subdued mood, the energy shifted dramatically after sunset.
As the vibe picks up both the local and international artists continued to light up the stage with their powerful beat and performances, transforming the venue into a rhythmic, glowing hub of musical fest as the crowd immersed themselves with the island sounds and dance the night away.
The mixture of artists provided a night of entertainment for music lovers who also joined in singing their favourite
The full line-up featured: Julie Tolman & Lil Crisp, Jques AlamoD, Stainley T, Baleh, Miyah, Cheslie, Lonna, Kayler, Squally, Stoney B, Poetik, 56 Hop Rod, J I’m boy, Kali Tui, Liz Vamarasi, Jaro Local, and Fejoint.
Fijian singer Liz Vamarasi, performing just after 9pm, was also a crowd favorite.
Her soulful delivery of “Rawai” and “Vakadua” had fans swaying and singing along.
At the press conference on Friday, she shared her excitement: “This my second time in the Solomon Islands and I’m just happy to be part of the festival.
“I love the Solomon Islands people and to connect with the people and celebrate the music that brings us all together.”
Jahboy kept the energy high with fan favorites like “Baby Love,” You are my medicine ,” while Poetik brought lyrical fire to the stage with his signature blend of hip-hop and island soul.
Jaro Local closed out the night with a string of hits including “Aghe Kula,” and “Half Maliata,” sending the crowd into a final wave of cheers and dance.
Festival goers echoed sentiments of satisfaction.
Twenty-two-year-old Leanne from West Honiara, said: “It started slow, but once the music kicked in, it felt like the whole place woke up. I danced for hours — it was magic.
“The Pacific hits kept coming — it was the kind of night you don’t want to end,” she added.
The event was proudly sponsored by Our Telekom, Pacific Crown Hotel, Tourism Solomons, and other supporting partners.
Organizers credited the late surge in attendance to strong word-of-mouth and the magnetic draw of the performers.
The festival aimed to spotlight regional talent and foster cultural exchange.
As the final notes echoed across the waterfront, festival goers left with smiles and stories — proof that even a slow start can lead to a blazing conclusion.
For many party goers it was a night of musical fest and one that they will remember as the year draws to a close in a couple of months time.
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
