Coconut Grove Welcomes Goombay, Miami Dolphins

Coconut Grove, Fla. -- Coconut Grove launches the new month this weekend by combining pro football and fishing and celebrating the region's rich Bahamian heritage.

Goombay is both a form of Bahamian music centered around a hand-played goat skin drum and a summer festival in the Bahamas that features Junkanoo parades.

In Coconut Grove, where Bahamian settlers began arriving in the 19th century, the event got underway at the J.W. Carver High School football field on Friday, May 31 with music, dancing, food and one such parade.

Festivities continue in and beyond Grand Avenue in the Grove's Little Bahamas section from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, closing the artery from Elizabeth Street to Douglas Road.

The Miami Dolphins were meanwhile up at sunrise on Saturday for a Regatta Harbour Marina-based fishing tournament to benefit the Baptist Health Foundation.

As part of the 25th Fins Weekend, pro players, coaches and cheerleaders in addition to casting lines are attending a Saturday night party.

The Coconut Grove Organic Farmers Market takes place as usual at Grand Avenue and Margaret Street north of Elizabeth.

Saturday shoppers at the casual outdoor setting can find fresh produce, vegan cuisine, tropical fashions and more while getting to know neighbors from throughout Miami-Dade County.

-- Michelle Sheldone