Goombay's Gonna Get You

Although the Miami area’s heritage is associated with Native Americans, Anglo-American settlers, and Cuban culture, Caribbean contributions have been numerous over the years. This weekend you can celebrate the cultural impact of the first African-American settlers in the Magic City at the 30th annual Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival, one of the...

By PAUL CATALA

June 1, 2006

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Although the Miami area’s heritage is associated with Native Americans, Anglo-American settlers, and Cuban culture, Caribbean contributions have been numerous over the years. This weekend you can celebrate the cultural impact of the first African-American settlers in the Magic City at the 30th annual Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival, one of the nation’s largest black heritage festivals.

Goombay is the Bantu world for “rhythm,” and the highlight of the fest is the mix of traditional African beats with European influences, performed by Bahamian settlers. Be sure to take a break from dancing to sample an array of Bahamian foods and peruse the wares of more than 300 vendors who share the beauty of their culture through arts, crafts, vibrant costumes, and interactive entertainment.

Since 1976, Goombay has grown from a one-day shindig to a two-day extravaganza drawing more then 300,000 revelers. Join the street party along Grand Avenue in Coconut Grove from noon to 8:00 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 7:00 today. Admission is free. Call 954-649-0592, or visit www.goombayfestivalcoconutgrove.com.
June 3-4

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