Birmingham town center came alive over the weekend with the smells and sounds of the Caribbean Islands. The very first Caribbean Food Festival took place in Victoria Square on June 3^rd and 4^th and comprised of soothing music, some hip shaking dancing on the streets, friendly happy people all around, tasty punch, and of course delicious food.

It was as if the weather Gods were giving their blessings when the city was graced with two days of pure sunshine – Caribbean weather served with some jerk chicken – with a slight drizzle which to be honest was very tropical in itself.

The smell of food being cooked was simply exhilarating. The sounds of the Caribbean made the whole experience all the more fun as you could simply pick a drink or grab a bite and just sit and relax and for a few minutes, or hours if you have that kind of time, wash away your worries. It was as if island life (well, Caribbean island life) was transferred in totality over the big pond and into the heart of Birmingham.

Having watched the popularity of the Birmingham International Food Festival and Birmingham German Market increase tremendously over the years, I have no doubt that the Caribbean Food Festival will only grow in the years to come. It was a pleasant addition to the cultural expansion of the city and an opportunity to try a completely different cuisine.

So make sure that you keep a lookout for the Caribbean Food Fest whenever it happens next by keeping a track of what’s going on in the city.