Free event brings rhythm, flavors of Caribbean to Tulsa

A Caribbean getaway is not so far away, in fact, those living in Tulsa will not have to even leave the city.

MAS Tulsa: A Caribbean Carnivale Experience is Saturday, July 19 at Guthrie Green. The free event started as a 10-year celebration for Sisserou's Restaurant, but was so popular, co-owner Ilana Velazquez brought it back for a second year. Here are 3 things to know about MAS Tulsa:

Caribbean Cuisine

Sisserou's is a Caribbean restaurant at 107 N Boulder Ave. in the Tulsa Arts District. The Velazquez family opened it in 2014 after moving to Tulsa from New York.

Ilana said she was born in the United States, but her parents are from the Caribbean island of Dominica. They took Ilana and her brother there to visit often, and that is where she fell in love with the culture and its food. "Growing up in Tulsa, I loved it here, but there was kind of a void in terms of being able to share in the culture that I love so much," Ilana added.

Sisserou's serves dishes like jerk chicken, Rasta pasta, and curry. The event will feature a taste of these flavors and more. To see the restaurant's full menu visit their website.

Rhythm of the Islands

One of the highlights of MAS Tulsa: A Caribbean Carnivale Experience is the live music. Sisserou's has invited both local artists and singers, drummers, and dancers from Barbados, the Bahamas, and St. Maarten to perform.

This year's headliner is Rohie Ryddim. The lead singer of the group, Rohan Williams, is also from Dominica and grew up with Ilana. "When I got that call and she said I want to bring this to Oklahoma, I was like Tulsa here I come to hit you with that Caribbean culture, that energy, that passion, you know," he said. Their music can be found on Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music.

Caribbean Carnivale

MAS Tulsa is from noon until 10 p.m. at Guthrie Green. Activities include painting, drums, a Zumba class, vendors, face painting, food, a Rum shaker competition, fashion show, costume contest, and live music. For more information or to purchase VIP tickets visit the event page. Anyone with a VIP ticket will be entered to win a free 5 night stay in a tropical location courtesy of Island Runs Travel Agency.