Hundreds of residents and visitors gathered on Saturday, October 3, for the 2026 Gombey Festival, an annual showcase of one of Bermuda's most treasured cultural traditions. The event, organised by the Department of Culture, drew what officials described as an exceptional turnout, with crowds filling the venue to watch the island's iconic masked dancers perform.

This year's festival carried special significance as it paid tribute to the late Zaniko Hendrickson, a member of the H&H Gombeys troupe whose contributions to the art form left a lasting mark on Bermuda's cultural community. Organisers dedicated portions of the programme to honouring his memory and his role in keeping the Gombey tradition alive for future generations.

A Government spokesperson said the festival continues to serve as a vital platform for celebrating Bermuda's heritage, noting the strong attendance from both locals and tourists. The Gombey tradition, with roots stretching back centuries, blends African, Caribbean and British influences and remains a fixture at community events across the island.

The Department of Culture said it remains committed to supporting the Gombey troupes and ensuring the tradition is passed down to young Bermudians. Saturday's event featured performances from multiple troupes, with drumming, dancing and colourful regalia on full display throughout the day.