The Department of Culture is proud to announce that the Gombey Festival has been named Best Cultural Event in the 2025 Best of Bermuda Awards, presented by The Bermudian Magazine. This honour recognizes the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, high-quality performances, and its role in spotlighting one of Bermuda’s most beloved traditions.

Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen Darrell, JP, MP, shared his appreciation: “The Gombey Festival is more than a performance, it is a powerful celebration of Bermudian identity, unity, and pride. This award showcases the hard work of our Gombey troupes and the Department of Culture in keeping this cherished tradition alive, dynamic, and deeply meaningful to us all.”

The 2024 festival was held at the Botanical Gardens and featured seven Gombey troupes, live performances by local artists and dance groups, a wide variety of food and craft vendors, a community art project in partnership with The Chewstick Foundation, and even a free fun castle for kids. As part of the weekend, the Department also launched the second instalment of its short film series, ‘Gombey Unity’, produced by filmmaker Qian Dickinson, further highlighting the stories behind the performers and their shared dedication to the art form.

The Gombey Festival continues to bring people together and celebrate a living tradition that resonates across generations. The Best of Bermuda award reflects the festival’s growing popularity and its meaningful place in the hearts of the community.