An Introduction to Gombeys of Bermuda
Expressive dancing, pulsating drums, and rich history blend in this unforgettable island tradition of pride, resilience, and rhythm. Experience the vibrant spirit of Bermuda Gombeys and find where to see them.
- People & Culture
The beat of drums echoes through Bermuda's streets as masked dancers whirl about in brilliant costumes adorned with feathers, bells, mirrors, and flowing capes, their movements narrating stories of resistance, resilience, and celebration. The traditions of Gombey dancers have evolved from covert acts of rebellion into one of Bermuda's most treasured cultural displays.
Today, these performances blend the whistle calls of captains, the hypnotic rhythms of traditional and military drums, and the acrobatic choreography of dancers whose elaborate headdresses and painted masks transform them into living embodiments of the island's soul.
More than entertainment, the tradition of Gombey dancing is a living bridge between past and present, where every step, costume detail, and drumbeat encapsulates a deep history while celebrating the unbreakable spirit of Bermudian culture – making it an unmissable experience for anyone looking to understand the true heart of Bermuda.
The History of the Gombeys
During the era of slavery in Bermuda, enslaved Africans were reportedly given a few days off from their labours during the Christmas season. To celebrate, they gathered with their loved ones and danced. Because their songs and dances critiqued or mocked their enslavers, dancers wore masks and face coverings to stay anonymous. With Gombey dancing’s bold, rebellious displays and its inherent nature of gathering enslaved Black people in large groups, the British colonial authorities historically restricted these gatherings for fear of uprising.
Gombey music fuses cultural West African dances with Caribbean and Native American influences as well as British military music. In fact, the word “Gombey” is believed to derive from African or Caribbean terms for “rhythm” or “drum” and is similar to the name of the “goombay” drum from the Bahamas as well as the “gumbe” drum from West African countries like Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau.
This dancing tradition survived thanks to oral teachings through the generations and secret performances until it was no longer outlawed. Today, the Gombeys of Bermuda still wear fantastically ornate costumes as part of their dances, with painted masks, bells, capes, whips, and more aspects of their costumes holding historical symbolism. Some dances are “freedom dances,” with the Gombeys celebrating being freed from shackles.
A Symbol of Identity & Pride
Here in Bermuda, Gombey dancers’ brilliantly detailed costumes, along with their drums and specific dances, are often passed down through generations of dancers, drummers, and costume makers. Different troupes, who are deeply tied to their local neighbourhoods and families, maintain their own costume designs, dance styles, and musical arrangements, making each troupe’s performance truly unique. The tradition continues to evolve with each new generation of dancers, drummers, and costume makers who add their own style while respecting its historical roots.
As a vital part of Bermuda’s national heritage, Gombey performances are no longer restricted to Christmas and Boxing Day – more holidays and even whole festivals now feature Gombeys or focus entirely on celebrating the Gombey tradition.
Where to Experience Gombey Performances
Beyond the days around Christmas, travellers can see performances by Gombeys in Bermuda all year-round. Some notable festivals to see Gombeys include:
New Year’s Day (Jan. 1)
A New Year’s tradition in Bermuda is for Gombey troupes to effectively take over the streets and fill the neighbourhoods with music and vibrant displays. Troupes often start on specific roads and traverse the neighbourhoods, much as they have done for generations.
Good Friday (March/April)
Bermuda’s Good Friday traditions include dining on codfish cakes and hot cross buns, as well as attending – or participating in – the Kite Festival at Horseshoe Bay Beach. While the locals fly their traditional kites made of ticks and tissue paper, Gombeys dance throughout the neighborhoods to celebrate the religious holiday.
Bermuda Day Parade (May)
The fourth Friday of May is set aside to celebrate Bermuda Day, which is the culminating event of Heritage Month and is widely considered the first day of summer here. The colourful parade filled with music, culture, and patriotic island pride winds through the City of Hamilton, with Gombey troupes, bands, and majorettes amongst the array of traditional and modern parade floats.
Harbour Nights (Summer)
Every Wednesday night in the summertime, the City of Hamilton opens up Front Street for a weekly street festival. During Harbour Nights, visitors can have fun at this pedestrian-only block party alongside locals enjoying the live music, cuisine, and vendors selling jewellery, art, and Gombey dolls. Of course, live performers include Gombeys filling the street.
Gombeys In the City (Summer)
If you miss Harbour Nights on Wednesday during your trip to Bermuda in the summer, you can still catch Gombey performances every Saturday afternoon during Gombeys In The City. The Place’s Gombeys troupe is a regular sight on Front Street, in front of the Bermuda marquee sign.
