Goombay! 2014
Western North Carolina’s YMI Cultural Center is proud to announce the return of the 34th annual Goombay Festival on September 12-14, 2014.
The free public event will be held at a new location this year – Downtown Asheville’s Roger McGuire Green on Friday & Saturday, September 12 & 13. On Sunday, September 14, the public is invited to attend a celebration of Gospel Music held at the Ray Auditorium located in the YMI building on Eagle Street.
What’s New With Goombay?
For starters, it’s in a new location this year – the Roger McGuire Green. In addition to that, there’s the expanded children’s area complete with workshops hosted by LEAF in School and Streets; dance performances and competitions; the Easel Rider; activities by local non-profits; and much more.
Goombay 2014 is proud to participate in Michelle Obama’s national Let’s Move initiative. The festival will support this campaign by hosting healthy food and movement demonstrations. Goombay will still offer the traditional foods associated with the festival, but you will also find delicious and healthy food options as well.
African American vegan chef, social justice and food activist and author Bryant Terry will be on hand with recipes and demonstrations that explore the advantages of a plant-based diet. Terry is a Memphis native, so his recipes will have a southern and tasty vibe. His recipes have been featured in Gourmet, Food and Wine, The New York Times, Vibe, and elsewhere.
Guest yoga instructor Tyrone Beverly is an African American leader in the Denver community and founder of Im’Unique, a non-profit dedicated to uniting communities and fostering healthy lifestyles. Beverly’s classes are designed for all ages and skill levels, including those who are new to yoga.
Performing at the Goombay! Festival
In the tradition of Goombay, this year’s festival will feature an eclectic musical lineup of national and regional acts celebrating African and Caribbean culture, offering a diverse assortment of craft and food vendors, stilt walkers, and more. Performers include 101 Runners, ReggaeInfinity, Zansa, Jonathan Scales, LYRIC, and others to be announced.
About Goombay
The City of Asheville ranks Goombay as one of four local anchor events where families, businesses, and communities from across the Western North Carolina region gather to celebrate the richness and diversity of the African Diaspora. The festival attracts more than 10,000 people throughout the weekend and garners national media coverage.
Goombay lives up to its West African name, meaning “rhythm or drum,” with eclectic sounds, vibrant, multicolored sights, and the tantalizing aroma of exotic foods, reflecting a multiplicity of cultures and traditions.
Please like Goombay on Facebook, Goombay Asheville 2014, follow them on Twitter @AvlGoombay, and find them on Instagram @goombay2014.
www.ashevillegoombayfestival.com
