Goombay Festival: Celebrating Key West's Bahamian Heritage Oct. 18-19

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors that celebrate Key West's Bahamian heritage? Join us at the family-friendly Goombay Festival on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 18-19! It's a celebration you won't want to miss, offering a wonderful experience for everyone. Don't miss out on the fun—mark your calendars now!

Photo byRob O’Neal/Florida Keys News Bureau/HO

Have you ever heard of the exuberant street festival in the island city's Bahama Village neighborhood? Settled in the early 1800s by Bahamians looking for a new island home, this vibrant area hosts the fabulous Goombay Festival! 🎉 It's the perfect way to kick off Key West's Fantasy Fest—a 10-day extravaganza of costuming and masking fun! The 2024 festivities run through Sunday, Oct. 27, so don't miss out on the excitement!

Photo byAndy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau/HO

Have you heard about Goombay's high-energy action? It's all happening on Petronia Street, right off Key West’s famous Duval Street in the vibrant heart of Bahama Village! You can enjoy events from noon until midnight on both days. It's the place to be!

Are you ready for an unforgettable weekend? Get set for Friday night's thrilling "Junkanoo Rush" and Saturday's vibrant Junkanoo parade with costumed marchers! This exciting event features the Bahamas’ renowned New Generation Cultural Group. Saturday's parade kicks off at 6 p.m., traveling through the lively sections of Duval and Petronia streets. Don't miss out on the fun!

Have you ever been to Goombay? It's an amazing event that draws thousands of people each year, from international visitors to local Florida Keys residents who have made it a beloved tradition! Whether you're a seasoned attendee or new to the festivities, you'll find the vibrant atmosphere and diverse crowd truly captivating. Don't miss out on making it part of your yearly plans!

Photo byAndy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau/HO

Ever wondered what it's like to savor the vibrant flavors of Caribbean and ethnic dishes? Dive into this amazing experience with vendors serving up delicious treats! Discover the colorful world of island-inspired arts and crafts, and let loose dancing in the streets with live music from talented Bahamian, Floridian, and local musicians! Don't miss out on this incredible celebration—come join the fun!

Photo by(Rob O’Neal/Florida Keys News Bureau/HO

The main entertainment stage is to be located at the corner of Emma and Olivia streets, with performers offering nonstop music in multiple genres. The entertainment lineup includes “soul man” Robert Albury, soca singer Hebrew Edwards and the Caribbean Explosion Band presenting reggae and soca rhythms.

• Event information: facebook.com/keywestgoombay2018/ and fantasyfest.com
• Fantasy Fest information: fantasyfest.com
• Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

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