Steeped in the tradition of Afro-Caribben culture, Goombay is a family friendly event, featuring an interactive kids area, vendors from near and far, and an eclectic mix of music.
Our goal is to unite the community, bringing people of all backgrounds and ages together to celebrate. From Reggae to Gospel, stilt walkers to face painters, there will be entertainment for the youngest of patrons to seasoned festival attendees.
The YMI’s Goombay Festival are pleased to celebrate 34 years of this festival from September 12 – 14, 2014 in Pack Place Park, downtown Asheville.
Attended by well over 10,000 visitors annually, the Goombay Festival offers a variety of entertainment including dancing, the beating of West African drums ringing with the harmonic live music featuring gospel, reggae, jazz, funk and soul. Visitors can see vendors line the park with everything from authentic Caribbean food to third world crafts. This signature event has been touted by the Asheville Mayor’s Office as one of four anchor events in the City where families, businesses, and communities gather from across the Western North Carolina region to celebrate the richness and diversity of the African Diaspora.
Founded in 1893, the YMI has celebrated two centuries of bringing to life the African Diaspora showcasing a myriad of collections reflecting the history, art, and cultural richness of ethnic diversity. The YMI fosters cultural awareness, heritage, musical and artistic expression, each uniquely distinct yet integrated, to promote community and educational outreach. Long esteemed and recognized as an iconic beacon in the Market Street Community, the YMI contributes to the economic vitality of its neighbors by virtue of its presence and sustainability. This posterity has positioned the YMI to guide the way for new and seasoned artists, educators, the community and others to have a platform through which history, art and musical expression take shape in enjoyable, informative and creative ways.