One of my favorite hobbies is looking up flights to places I know I can’t afford right now. Manifesting is a full-time job. The Caribbean has always been on the bucket list. If you’re like me and flying to the islands is not in the budget right now, this weekend was made for you.

The NOLA Caribbean Festival returns June 22 and 23 at Central City BBQ, from 5-10 p.m. Get the island feels and vibes you need without the cost of airfare or a potential dodgy Air BnB that looks nothing like the pictures. With new food options and returning favorites, there are over 50 food vendors to fulfill your cravings, but where to begin?  

First time at the fest? Don’t be shy. Jump in head first with the ultimate crowd favorite at Karibu Kitchen, serving goat stew over coconut rice INSIDE a pineapple. Curried chicken been on your mind? Johnny’s Jamaican Grill returns with (if the word on the street is true) the best curried chicken in the city. Don’t be intimidated by the line in front of Queen Trina Lisa’s stand; it moves fast and you’ll want her famous doubles. A common street food in Trinidad, doubles are turmeric fried bread with curried chick peas.Three-time Marley Gras Fest Champs Island Paradise Bar and Grill did not come to play, serving an array of delicious Trinidadian cuisine. Jamaican Vibescuisine makes their fest debut this year with their succulent jerk chicken. Also new on the scene is Cool Fruit Sensations, making fresh made-to-order real fruit concoctions to cool you down in between dance breakdowns.

There’s a total of ten Caribbean experience events over the span of four days. Parades, pool parties, brunch DJ sets, and even free massages. Don’t miss a beat. For more information and to purchase tickets go to nolacaribbeanfestival.com.