Goombay Festival: 2025 In-Depth Guide

Since 1982, the Goombay Festival Asheville has vibrantly animated downtown Asheville with the sound of Afro-Caribbean drums, the aroma of island cuisine, and a communal spirit that draws locals and visitors together. Established by the YMI Cultural Center to celebrate the richness and diversity of the African diaspora in Western North Carolina, this free, family-friendly event attracts thousands every year to Pack Square Park.

Downtown Beats at Pack Square Park – Where It All Happens

From steel drums to storytelling, Pack Square Park becomes a vibrant village of sound, flavor, and heritage.

Pack Square Park, located at 80 Court Plaza, is often called Asheville’s “front yard.” During Goombay, it transforms into a dynamic village filled with diverse vendors, multiple performance stages, and art booths.

The green lawn framed by Asheville’s iconic art-deco skyline allows festival-goers to seamlessly move from lively steel-drum sets to intimate storytelling circles. Families enjoy children splashing in fountains while others relax beneath shade trees sampling jerk chicken, conch fritters, and sweet Bahamian pastries.

September Weekend of Rhythm – When to Go

Three days of funk, food, and fellowship—mark your calendar for Asheville’s most colorful weekend of the year.

• Dates: Friday, September 5 – Sunday, September 7, 2025
• Friday: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Opening Night Celebration)
• Saturday: Noon to 10 p.m. (Main performances and drum circle)
• Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Gospel finale)

Plan to arrive early on Saturday to secure seats for headline acts on the main stage and stay into the evening for the community drum circle illuminating downtown after dusk.

For Families, Foodies & Culture Lovers – Who Should Attend

Whether you’re chasing live reggae, historic walking tours, or island eats—Goombay welcomes every generation.

• Families: Interactive craft tents and kid-friendly fountain fun
• Music Fans: Live funk, reggae, soul, gospel, and local bands
• Foodies: Afro-Caribbean dishes like oxtail, jerk chicken, and plantains
• Culture Seekers: Historic walking tours and cultural storytelling sessions
• Solo Travelers & Groups: Inclusive, vibrant, community atmosphere for all

Roots, Rhythm & Resilience – What Makes Goombay Special

More than music—this is a living celebration of African and Caribbean legacies, rooted in Asheville’s soul.

Goombay honors its Bahamian namesake—junkanoo-style street parties—through colorful parades of costumed dancers, high-energy brass bands, and a marketplace featuring Black-owned artisans and entrepreneurs. A dedicated legacy stage spotlights poets, storytellers, and elders who helped launch the festival in 1982 to celebrate community and elevate Black culture, art, food, and entertainment in Asheville.

Expanded Features and Highlights:

Here are some features and highlights to expect for this festival:

• Parade and Stilt Walkers: Performers from the Zulu Connection bring vibrant visuals downtown
• Art and Craft Vendors: Over 40 booths featuring Afro-diasporic art and merchandise
• Cooking Demonstrations: Live Afro-Caribbean food demos with on-site preparation
• Interactive Free Throw Competition: Family-friendly activity space for all ages
• Spoken Word and Poetry: Live performances from local poets and storytellers
• Walking Tours: Guided explorations of Asheville’s African-American landmarks
• Community Drum Circle: Join the rhythm on Saturday night under the stars

Smooth Arrivals – Parking Tips

Park with ease and join the celebration—downtown garages and walkable lots put the pulse of Goombay just steps away.

• Recommended Garages: Biltmore Avenue, Harrah’s Cherokee Center, Rankin Avenue, Wall Street
• Rates: Around $1.50/hour, around $13 daily max; flat rate ~around $7 after 5 p.m. (check signage)
• Sunday: Free street meter parking (arrive early—spaces fill quickly)
• Closest Garage: Pack Square Garage at 26 Biltmore Ave (350 spaces)

From Festival Vibes to Mountain Views

Why let the fun stop at the gates? Tripster helps you turn your Asheville festival weekend into a full getaway by bundling hotels, event tickets, and top local attractions like Blue Ridge Mountains tours and the iconic Biltmore Estate.

With exclusive discounts, flexible vacation packages, and an easy booking process, Tripster takes care of the logistics—so you can focus on fresh mountain air, good music, and great memories.