Key West’s Goombay Festival to Blend Music, Food and Island Spirit

KEY WEST, Florida Keys — High-energy family fun, entertainment and multicultural taste treats await revelers Friday and Saturday, Oct. 19-20, during the annual Goombay street festival.

The lively festival runs from noon to midnight both days, with the action centered on Petronia Street in the heart of Key West’s historic Bahama Village neighborhood. Attractions include live music, food and a spirited celebration of the cultural connection between Key West and the Bahamas.

Goombay weekend marks the beginning of Fantasy Fest, Key West’s 10-day masking and costuming gala. The 2018 festival is themed “Oh … The Games We Play!” and is scheduled Friday, Oct. 19, through Sunday, Oct. 28.

Each year Goombay attracts thousands of people ranging from national and international visitors to Florida Keys residents who have made attending the event a local tradition.

Against the vibrant backdrop of Bahama Village, they view and purchase island arts and crafts, savor the flavors of vendors’ delicacies and spend two rocking evenings dancing in the streets.

Foods to be purchased typically include conch fritters and salads, fried fish, black beans and rice, Key lime pie and other items associated with Key West and its Bahamian neighbors.

The main entertainment stage is to be located at the corner of Petronia and Fort streets, with musicians and bands offering nonstop tunes in genres ranging from gospel to reggae. Among the talent-packed lineup are the Caribbean Explosion Band, the Bubba System and the Bahama Village Social Club. 

Other festival highlights are to include the Friday Flag Night Parade featuring the Key West Junkanoos and Saturday night’s Key West Junkanoo Parade of costumed marchers and dancers.

Event information: Glenwood Lopez at 770-401-7932 or fantasyfest.com

Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

Social: Facebook • Twitter • Instagram• YouTube• KeysVoices.com 

The lively festival runs from noon to midnight both days, with the action centered on Petronia Street in the heart of Key West’s historic Bahama Village neighborhood.

The lively festival runs from noon to midnight both days, with the action centered on Petronia Street in the heart of Key West’s historic Bahama Village neighborhood.

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