Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, feta and gyros and baklava sundaes. Greek desserts and pastries tied up with string, these are a few of my favorite things. Have you not heard that remix? The New Orleans Greek Festival returns Thursday, May 23 through Sunday, May 26. A happy Memorial Day weekend indeed. The annual fest will be held at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church at 1200 Robert E. Lee Boulevard.

Take it easy on the feta (that’s more-so a personal note) because there are new items on the menu. Indulge at The Moussaka Booth, featuring moussaka, feta fries, and Greek salad. The Greek liquor Masitha from the island of Chio will also make its debut. A new lamb plate with tomato orzo au jus, a vegan-friendly platter, gluten-free items, and meze platter are also new to the menu this year. My trip to the Greek Fest always ends with a box (OK, two boxes) of sweets. Select from over 20 traditional homemade Greek pastries, baklava, cakes, cookies, and kourambiedes.

Back by popular demand, the fest will open Thursday from 5-9 p.m. Although menu items are limited that day, it will only cost you $5 to get in. Tickets Friday-Sunday are $8. Wear a toga on Sunday and entry is free. I’m eyeballing that old sheet in my closet right now. Bring bills with you, as there’s a cash-only entry.  For more info, visit the festival’s official website. 

Kali Orexi! (Greek way of saying Bon Appétit, congrats you’re bilingual)