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Steel drum bands create the beat for Goombay Fest
Renowned steel drum bands converge in Pensacola for the Goombay Festival on Saturday, April 28 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. in the Belmont-Devilliers district.
"Lively Up Yourself" is the order of the day. Steel drum bands representing schools throughout North America scheduled to perform include : the University of Southern Mississippi; Delta State University (Mississippi); University of Georgia; University of Lethbridge (Canada); Kennedy Elementary School (Georgia); Leon H i g h School (Tallahassee); and Florida State University.
In addition, the event features food and art vendors, children's activities, costumed character appearances from Ice Man, the PBS Kids, and Clifford the Big Red Dog, and Cat County 98.7 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m.
After the festival, reggae bands the Po' Boys, Tribe Irie, Tribal Style, The Visitors, and Top Celebrity Crew will perform beginning at 7 p.m.
For more information or to request a vendor registration form, call 850-207-0206, email t o info@goombaygulfcoast.com, or visit www.goombaygulfcoast.com.
The Goombay-style festival emerged during slavery days in Bermuda when both music and rhythm were brought from Africa and West Indies. The original dancers used a skincovered drum that was called "Gombey," meaning "rhythm." The Goombay dancers wear colorful costumes, masks and high headdresses topped with feathers.
This celebration was formally brought to America in 1970 by a group of people dedicated to keeping the old Bahamian traditions alive. To help educate South Floridians and tourists on Bahamian culture, the committee organized the Goombay Festival.
Within the Goombay festival, cultural arts, crafts, dance, cuisine and differing styles of Afro-Caribbean heritage is celebrated.
Goombay Gulf Coast has reduced the art vendor entry fee for the Pensacola Goombay Festival. Art vendors registering now through Friday, April 20, only pay $50.
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