Goombay turns 42 this year!
Goombay is a cultural expression of Black and Caribbean people, both music and rhythm were brought from Africa and the West Indies. The original dancers used a skin-covered drum that was called “Gombey” meaning rhythm. In the Bahamas, the word is “Goombay” and in Jamaica, the dance is known as “Gumbay”. The Goombay dancers wear colorful costumes and high headdresses topped with feathers. The Goombay brand offers multiple annual event that offer a chance to enjoy sights, sounds, and tastes of the African-Caribbean culture. We are know for our annual Goombay weekend festival in downtown Asheville. But in 2022 the Goombay brand will offer more celebrations, more opportunity to black owned business and more events! Goombay will bring a variety of entertainment including dancing and the beating of West African drums ringing with the harmonic live music featuring gospel, reggae, funk, and soul..