GRETNA, La. (WGNO) — Each year, Gretna Fest brings out massive crowds to the riverfront for a full weekend. Festivalgoers eager for a great weekend made their way to Gretna Fest for a star-studded musical lineup and great food. "This showcases Gretna first of all. Gretna is an amazing community on the West Bank, it's like a hidden gem. Today is a great time to come learn more about Gretna," said vendor with Croatian American Society Niko Tesvich. Artist Rodney King adds surprises to this year’s Gretna Fest poster Gretna resident and vendor Michael Dixon says this is the best time of the year. Since the pandemic, he has noticed a boost in sales, and is excited to hear many of the local acts taking the stage. "It's great. The last couple of years have been booming since everything opened back up. They also give good bands here. Tonight they have The Revivalist, Little Freddie King Jr. They have a lot of local things this year which I love," said Dixon. Another vendor believes the delicious food from so many cultures epitomizes the culture Gretna has to offer, and alongside the music, is a major draw for the festival. "Charbroil oysters are the best single bite of food anywhere. That's what's so amazing about it, and it's unique to New Orleans. It's not just us, its so many other unique items people can get here. Crabcakes or plain old burgers," said Tesvich. How could the port strike impact Louisiana farmers? David Espadron, owner of Element, a drink company created in New Orleans, says being a part of the fest has opened the business to new customers. He says with just one taste, people are hooked. "Oh my God, when y'all come try this drink, y'all are going to be amazed. It's a beautiful thing that this is our third year actually being in the Gretna Fest. Every year that we come out, we do well. We have a lot of support; people come and support us all the time," said Espadron. The festivities will continue all weekend with different performances hitting the stage. You can purchase tickets online. Single-day passes are $40, weekend passes are $90, and tickets for kids ages 5 through 12 are $5. For more information involving transportation, click here. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Post New judge could give Diddy another attempt to win bail 11 inmates charged with attempted escape from Avoyelles Parish Jail 11 Avoyelles Parish inmates face new charges, accused of escaping lockdown cell Super Retriever Series: $75K, dog dock diving and more Drying out for the weekend