Bermuda’s Gombey Festival was a resounding success as hundreds gathered at the beautiful Botanical Gardens on Saturday, October 26th, to celebrate the island’s unique and storied Gombey tradition. The event brought together families, friends, locals, and visitors in a celebration of vibrant dance, music, and art, showcasing the cultural unity and talent of Bermuda’s Gombey troupes.

The festival featured breathtaking live performances by Bermuda’s Gombey troupes, drawing spectators to their feet in celebration of a tradition that represents resilience, creativity, and a rich heritage. Attendees also participated in the “Gombeys in the Gardens” Community Art Project, hosted in partnership with The Chewstick Foundation. This hands-on art activity invited participants to connect with Gombey culture by contributing to a collective mural, adding their own creative touches to the festival’s theme of unity.

“The energy was phenomenal,” said Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, The Hon. Owen Darrell, reflecting on the festival and expressing his gratitude and pride for the annual celebration."The Gombey Festival is not just a showcase of talent; it’s a showcase of our identity and unity. Watching our community come together, from the youngest child dancing to the beat to our honoured Gombey captains, is truly inspiring. This is the heart of Bermuda’s culture, and I’m thrilled we could celebrate it together once again."

Honouring Gombey Legends and Leaders

A highlight of this year’s festival was the recognition of four exceptional individuals who have made lasting contributions to Bermuda’s Gombey tradition. The festival honoured:

• Robert Wilson of the Gombey Evolution Troupe: Known for his artistic innovation, Robert has dedicated years to evolving the art of Gombey performance, helping shape the troupe’s distinctive style while mentoring younger performers.
• Dennis Parsons of Places Gombeys: As a founding member of the Bermuda Gombey Council, Dennis has played a vital role in preserving Gombey tradition, ensuring that the art form remains authentic while continuing to inspire new generations.
• Lawrence “Stickers” Hendrickson Jr. and Carolyn “Granny” Hendrickson of H&H Gombeys (posthumous honourees): These cherished Gombey ancestors were celebrated for their legacy of dedication and commitment to the art. Lawrence “Stickers” Hendrickson Jr.’s rhythm and influence remain legendary, while Carolyn “Granny” Hendrickson is remembered for her nurturing role within the Gombey community, keeping the heart of the tradition alive for future generations.

The Bermuda Gombey Festival continues to grow in popularity and recognition as a vital celebration of the island’s culture, heritage, and artistry, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich history; a fusion of African, British, and Native American influences that have uniquely evolved to embody Bermudian identity.

For further details on the Gombey Festival and future cultural events, visit the Department of Culture at www.culture.bm.

Please see the link below for festival photos on the Department of Culture’s Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=bdaculture&set=a.972732131558671