Miramar to host inaugural Bahamas Goombay Broward festival. Here are details
While many know Goombay as a West Grove event, a new version is scheduled to be held in Broward for the first time in July.
Hosted by Commissioner Avril Cherasard, the Bahamas Goombay Broward festival will take place at City Hall Plaza in Miramar on Saturday, July 18, from 2 to 9 p.m. and feature food, music and a Junkanoo band.
The Goombay festival has a long history in Coconut Grove, where the area of Little Bahamas and Grand Avenue carry the culture of Bahamian immigrants. It took place June 5-7 and has been happening since 1977.
As a Bahamian, Cherasard says Bahamians are everywhere, and Broward is ready to celebrate this summer, too.
“I have a 75-year-old mom who is physically disabled. She would love to attend Miami Goombay. She yearns for a taste of home,” Cherasard told the Miramar News on Monday, June 22.
“It’s for people like her that I’m bringing the Bahamas to Broward ... everywhere Bahamains are we should be able to celebrate Goombay.”
You can expect live performances, a culture village, a craft market and Bahamian food at the Broward event.
It wouldn’t be Goombay without a Junkanoo band. There will be two rushes, and Cherasard says the best will happen after dark.
Attendees will have the opportunity to join the rush and can pay for a package that includes a spot at the front of the line, a headpiece, a whistle and a towel.
Cherasard also hinted at a special celebrity guest who will be honored at the ceremony. One of the names “most recognized in Bahamian music” will receive an honor, but the guest is not confirmed as of June 22.
More information will come as the event approaches, including the names of four Bahamian artists who will perform.
