Asheville’s Goombay Festival is happening now through September 13, 2026, celebrating African and Caribbean heritage. Hosted by the YMI Cultural Center, the event features DJs, live performances, local artists, and vendors, offering the community opportunities to eat, dance, shop, and learn.
Sean Palmer, the executive director of YMI Cultural Center, emphasized the festival’s diverse offerings, including a skating rink, theatre and film experiences, and a 5K event, all reflecting cultural significance.
This year’s festival focuses on legacy, linking Asheville’s traditions to the African diaspora and Caribbean cultures, while honoring the resilience and contributions of Black communities in Asheville and Southern Appalachia.
For more details, visit the Goombay Festival site.
