Asheville, September 5, 2025
News Summary
The Goombay Festival will return to Asheville after a year’s hiatus due to Hurricane Helene. This beloved festival, sponsored by the YMI Cultural Center, celebrates the cultural richness of the African diaspora through music, food, and community activities. Scheduled for September 4-7 in downtown Asheville, the festival will feature over 40 vendors, local performances, and tributes, making it a significant event for both residents and visitors.
Asheville is set to celebrate the return of the Goombay Festival after a year-long hiatus caused by Hurricane Helene. This beloved event, which has been a staple in the community for over four decades, will take place from Thursday, September 4, to Sunday, September 7, in downtown Asheville.
The YMI Cultural Center, the oldest operating cultural center in America, will sponsor the festival. Events will be hosted at both Pack Square Park and the YMI Cultural Center, creating an inviting platform for honoring and showcasing the richness of the African diaspora.
Last year’s event was canceled due to the severe weather brought by Hurricane Helene, making many look forward to this year’s festival with even greater anticipation. The festival promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with wellness events, music, culinary delights, and activities that cater to all ages.
At this year’s Goombay Festival, attendees can explore over 40 vendors who will present important artifacts, traditional food items, and various opportunities for dancing. It is an incredible opportunity to experience cultural enrichment and local community engagement.
Among the highlights, renowned choreographer and creative director Melvin AC Howell will perform alongside other notable artists. Additionally, the festival will pay tribute to Gloria Free, the individual who brought the Goombay tradition from Florida to Asheville, in honor of her lasting impact on the cultural landscape following her recent passing.
The Goombay Festival’s full schedule of events is available for attendees who wish to plan their experience thoroughly. With its commitment to celebrating diversity and community spirit, the festival is a must-attend event for locals and visitors alike.
Importance of the Goombay Festival
The Goombay Festival serves as a platform for the African American community to celebrate their heritage and share it with the broader Asheville community. It encompasses various activities that promote cultural understanding and connectivity within the community.
Location and Accessibility
Held at Pack Square Park and the YMI Cultural Center, the festival is designed to be accessible for everyone. Both venue locations are equipped to accommodate large crowds and foster a lively atmosphere filled with art, music, and cultural expressions.
Community Engagement
Community engagement is at the heart of the Goombay Festival. The involvement of local vendors and artists emphasizes support for Asheville’s cultural economy. Each vendor brings unique offerings that highlight the diverse talents and traditions found within the African diaspora.
Conclusion
This year’s Goombay Festival promises long-awaited celebrations of music, food, and community. As Asheville comes together to honor its cultural richness, the festival not only highlights the contributions of the community but also invites everyone to partake in the festivities.
FAQ
What are the dates for the Goombay Festival?
The Goombay Festival will take place from September 4 to September 7.
Where will the festival be held?
The festival will be hosted at Pack Square Park and the YMI Cultural Center in downtown Asheville.
What activities can visitors expect?
Visitors can expect wellness events, music performances, delicious food, and various activities for all ages.
Who will be performing at the festival?
Melvin AC Howell and various artists will perform throughout the festival, showcasing talent from the community.
Is there an honor being paid during this year’s festival?
Yes, Gloria Free will be honored for her role in bringing the Goombay tradition to Asheville after her recent passing.
Key Features of the Goombay Festival
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dates | September 4 – September 7 |
| Location | Pack Square Park & YMI Cultural Center, Asheville |
| Activities | Wellness events, music performances, food, and dance opportunities |
| Vendors | Over 40 local vendors featuring cultural artifacts and cuisine |
| Performers | Melvin AC Howell and various artists |
| Tributes | Honoring Gloria Free for her contributions |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Asheville Welcomes Fall Visitors with Culinary and Cultural Events
Asheville, NC Gears Up for a Vibrant Fall Season
Buncombe County Supports Local Festivals with Grants
Asheville’s Concert Series Moves to Pack Square Park
Asheville Mourns Loss of Beloved Community Leader Lady Gloria
YMI Cultural Center Reopens After Major Renovations
Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: YMI Goes All Out for Goombay Festival
- WLOS: Goombay Festival Returns to Downtown Asheville
- WSPA: Goombay Festival Returns to Asheville
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
- Britannica: Goombay
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
