Goombay Festival Key West
When: October 18 - October 20, 2024
Where: Petronia St and Duval St, Petronia St, Key West, FL 33040
Celebrate Key West’s Bahamian Heritage at the Goombay Festival
Mark your calendars for Friday, October 18, 2024, and Saturday, October 19, 2024, when Key West’s Bahama Village comes alive with the annual Goombay Festival, an exuberant street party that runs from 12:00 PM to midnight both days. As part of the city’s lead-up to Fantasy Fest, Goombay is a two-day celebration that honors Key West’s deep Bahamian roots and the lively tradition of Junkanoo. This family-friendly event offers a vibrant mix of music, food, arts, and culture that draws both locals and visitors to the heart of the Bahama Village neighborhood.
Island Beats & Nonstop Entertainment
The main stage for this unforgettable festival is located at the corner of Petronia and Emma Street, and it’s here that you’ll find nonstop musical entertainment that will keep the energy high all day and night. With performances ranging from reggae to soca, the sounds of the Caribbean will echo through the streets, inviting everyone to dance and celebrate. One of the highlights of the festival is the traditional Junkanoo parade, where dancers in colorful costumes move to the infectious rhythms of Bahamian music, bringing the culture and history of the islands to life.
A Feast for the Senses: Bahamian Flavors & Crafts
The Goombay Festival is also a feast for the senses, with food stalls serving up the best in Caribbean-inspired dishes. Treat yourself to conch fritters, jerk chicken, and a variety of other Bahamian delicacies as you explore the festival. This is a celebration of island flavors that brings the authentic tastes of the Bahamas right to Key West’s doorstep.
Alongside the music and food, the festival also showcases island arts and crafts, with vendors displaying handmade goods from local and international artisans. From vibrant artwork to unique jewelry and textiles, there’s no shortage of one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home. The crafts on display are a testament to the creativity and cultural pride of the Bahamian and Afro-Caribbean communities that have long shaped the character of Bahama Village.
A Cultural Celebration Rooted in Community
At its heart, Goombay is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of community and tradition. Bahama Village, one of Key West’s most historic neighborhoods, is steeped in Bahamian heritage, and this annual event is a joyful reminder of the island’s rich cultural diversity. The streets come alive with the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean, inviting everyone—young and old—to join in the festivities.
Best of all, the Goombay Festival is a free event, making it accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find something to enjoy at this one-of-a-kind street party. With the festival kicking off at noon and running until midnight on Friday, October 18, and Saturday, October 19, you have plenty of time to soak in the sounds, flavors, and sights of this incredible celebration.
So, come on down to Bahama Village on October 18 and 19, 2024, and experience the Goombay Festival for yourself. Whether you're dancing to the beat of the steel drums, sampling a plate of jerk chicken, or picking out a handcrafted souvenir, you'll be immersed in the joy and culture of the Caribbean. This is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of life, heritage, and the vibrant spirit of Key West’s Bahamian community.
