This year’s Bermuda Gombey Festival will come alive on Saturday at the Botanical Gardens.

The family-friendly event celebrates the island's rich Gombey heritage, showcasing the talents of local Gombey troupes through dance, music and regalia.

Special features of the festival include live performances by Gombey troupes from across Bermuda, who will take to the stage and bring the rhythms and energy that defines the art form.

There will also be a community art project ― “Gombeys in the Gardens” ― with the Chewstick Foundation, where attendees can join in painting and celebrating Bermuda's culture through art.

This year’s festival will pay tribute to three significant figures.

Robert Wilson of Gombey Evolution Troupe will be recognised this year after the festival was cancelled in 2023 because of rain.

Additionally, 2024 honourees are Dennis Parsons of Places Gombeys, and posthumously, Lawrence “Stickers” Hendrickson Jr and Carolyn “Granny” Hendrickson of H & H Gombeys.

Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, said: "The Gombey Festival is a powerful expression of our history, rebellion, and freedom.

“I encourage everyone to come out, celebrate the Gombey tradition, and show their national pride. Let’s honour our Gombey captains, troupes, and the incredible legacy they carry forward for future generations.”

As part of the Gombey Festival weekend, the Department of Culture will host a virtual launch of the documentary film Gombey Unity on its YouTube channel on Friday, while Chewstick will be holding an open mike jam session on Sunday.

The festival starts at 5pm in the Botanical Garden’s Main Show Ring. Admission is free. For more information on the festival and related events, visit www.culture.bm.