September 27-29, 2024
This free, family event connects community, and showcases Black culture, art, food and entertainment. The lively event will be held in downtown Asheville at Pack Square this year,
The Goombay Festival was created in 1982 to celebrate the richness and diversity of the African diaspora and Asheville’s African American community. Visit the event's website for more details.
The YMI Cultural Center is proud to be the host of this weekend festival attracting thousands to downtown Asheville each year.
The colorful festival features an eclectic lineup of national, regional, and local music acts, market, and dance troupes.
Along with the music, see and buy from diverse assortment of craft vendors.
What is YMI Cultural Center?
The YMI Cultural Center is located on the corner of Eagle and Market Streets in downtown Asheville. The YMI Cultural Center is an enduring asset in the City of Asheville. Housed in a local landmark building that is on the National Register of Historic Places, the YMICC runs programs in cultural arts, community education, and economic development. Commissioned by George Vanderbilt in 1892, this beautiful, multi-level 18,000 square foot, Tudor-style structure was built by and for the several hundred African-American craftsmen who helped construct the Biltmore House. It became known as the Young Men's Institute or YMI.
Downtown Asheville
Spend a day exploring downtown, with hundreds of locally-owned shops and galleries, museums, restaurants, breweries, and pubs. Visit Pack Square Park, dance at the Drum Circle, go to a festival or… read more
Spend a day exploring downtown, with hundreds of locally-owned shops and galleries, museums, restaurants, breweries, and pubs. Visit Pack Square Park, dance at the Drum Circle, go to a festival or enjoy street performers. See our favorite things to do!
