Apr 18, 2019

Crawfish meal | Priority Toyota of ChesapeakeOne of the most popular and fun events in Norfolk, Virginia is the Bayou Boogaloo Music and Cajun Food Festival. It’s a weekend festival that takes place every year in June to celebrate the New Orleans spirit while paying tribute to the influences of Bayou culture. This year, the event is celebrating its 30th anniversary on June 28-30. Here’s what you need to know about this upcoming celebration.

Live Music

What’s a summer festival without some great tunes? This event has you covered, with two stages featuring recording artists. While the full lineup isn’t available, you can expect big names such as the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Chubby Carrier, JJ Grey, Dumpstaphunk, and New Orleans Suspects. The artists will provide a diverse range of culture and style, offering entertainment that will broaden your horizons.

Authentic Arts and Crafts

For those looking to be inspired by cultural crafts, stop by the Arts Market of New Orleans. This arts and crafts marketplace features some of the best artistry Louisiana has to offer. These artisans will be displaying and selling their fine work, which can vary from sculpture to jewelry to art. All the artists were selected by the Arts Council of New Orleans and Norfolk Festevents for the perfect amalgam of authenticity and talent.

Cajun Delicacies

Perhaps the most popular part of the festival is the Cajun cuisine, which is cooked by chefs inspired by Louisiana’s vibrant culinary scene. You’ll get to enjoy all the traditional favorites, including fresh crawfish, beignets, muffuletta, alligator, jambalaya, and much more. Of course, if you have a pickier palate, you’ll also be able to find plenty of traditional festival fare, including funnel cake, kettle corn, and Italian water ice. If you’d like a drink to pair with your meal, a number of New Orleans beers will be on tap, including selections from Abita Brewing Company.

Tickets Available Now

Pumped for the Bayou Boogaloo Music & Cajun Food Fest? If so, you’ll want to get your tickets soon before prices go up. Currently, the cost is $10 for a day pass for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, or you can go all three days of the weekend for just $20. If you’re on a tight budget, consider stopping by Friday from noon to 2 p.m., as admission is free during this two-hour session. Once these early tickets sell out, prices will increase to $15 for a day pass and $30 for a weekend pass.

If you have a boat and were thinking about enjoying the water before heading over to the festival, you’re in luck. There is also a boater’s package deal that gives you reserved dockside parking for one vessel right at the entrance to the festival. It costs $50 in advance and $75 on the day of the event.

While it’s still a few months out, it’s time to start preparing for this epic festival. Make a note on your calendar, and get ready to enjoy some of the best food and music of your life.

Image via BPPrice | Licensed under CC BY 2.0