The Asian Festival on Main returns for its sixth year on May 17, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Old Town Fairfax. The free, family-friendly event is expected to welcome thousands of attendees.
This year celebrates the Year of the Horse with more than 120 vendors, including Asian food trucks and artisan vendors. There will be live performances, interactive activities, and family-friendly attractions, including a cosplay runway, karaoke, and a beer garden.
The festival opens with a traditional Dragon and Lion Dance by the Choy Wun Lion Dance Troupe on Main Street. Attendees can enjoy a full day of entertainment showcasing vocal, dance, instrumental, and martial arts performances representing cultures across Asia.
Among this year’s performers is Infusion, a musical collective that blends Southeast Asian and Western influences into contemporary sound, with members from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
Jenny Nguyen, former Miss VietFest United States and director of executive operations for a DC-based youth organization, will serve as this year’s emcee.
New this year is The Hungry Immigrant LIVE, a live podcast experience at the Asian Discovery Plaza. It will feature conversations on Asian food, culture, and identity with local chefs and community members. Featured panelists include Chef Erik Bruner-Yang, Mya Yn, and others.
The festival relies on community support and remains free and open to the public. Opportunities to donate as a Friend of AFM are available online.
Feature image courtesy Asian Festival on Main