“It’s a dream come true to see where we’ve started and where we are today,” says Irie, who is perhaps best known for being the longtime official DJ of the Miami Heat, Jamie Foxx, and so many other big names. “The vision of it was to have something fun, get people involved, and do it all for the community. Now we have a lot of stuff for people to do, man. A lot of stuff.”
Proceeds from all events benefit the Irie Foundation, which provides scholarship opportunities, cultural experiences, and mentorship programs to local at-risk youth. Last year, the weekend — which is organized by Irie and a dedicated team of 22 people — attracted nearly 3,000 guests. This year, Irie hoping to double that number.
So what's on deck for the 2018 edition?
For starters, golf has always been a big part of Irie Weekend. And rather than playing on a traditional course, Irie and company will hit Topgolf in Miami Gardens for all kinds of fun this Friday. There will be a kids' golf clinic in the morning, a celebrity Topgolf tournament midday, and a one-of-a-kind concert experience that night.
“So at some
For the first time ever at a Topgolf facility, a stage will be erected on the green, and Ludacris will rock the crowd. Later Friday evening, it’s back to LIV at the Fontainebleau, where Irie will be joined by Gucci Mane and DJ Diesel (Shaquille O’Neal)
“We got hooked up with one of the biggest event spaces on the beach,” Irie says. “And Guy is just a true master of barbecue. I’ll have his barbecue anytime!”
Diplo will headline a set at E11even this Saturday night, and the weekend will wrap Sunday morning with Turn Down for Brunch, hosted by "Foodgod" Jonathan Cheban at StripSteak.
“This weekend... it’s like having septuplets as a new parent,” Irie laughs. “As streamlined as we are, we start from scratch. We want our guests to have a new experience every time, and we’re ready to go.”
Irie Weekend. Thursday, June 29, through Sunday, July 1, at various locations throughout South Florida; irieweekend.com. Tickets for events start at $25, and VIP and exclusive packages are available. Proceeds benefit the Irie Foundation.