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Annual Asian-Pacific Festival in Grand Rapids

The lively atmosphere at the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival, showcasing diverse cultures.

News Summary

The Asian-Pacific Festival in Grand Rapids celebrates the vibrant cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Running from June 12 to June 15 at Calder Plaza, this year’s festival features live performances, workshops, artisan shopping, and a cultural parade. Organized by the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Foundation, the event promotes cultural awareness and inclusion, attracting large crowds with a variety of engaging activities. The festival welcomes attendees of all ages and encourages a welcoming community atmosphere.

Grand Rapids is set to host its ninth annual Asian-Pacific Festival this weekend, celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands. The event, organized by the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Foundation, is free and family-friendly, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees.

The festival will take place at Calder Plaza, located at 300 Monroe Ave. NW in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It will run from June 12 to June 15, featuring hours designed to cater to both daytime and evening visitors:

June 12: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
June 13: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
June 14: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
June 15: noon to 5 p.m.

This year’s festival will include a variety of engaging events, such as live music performances, traditional dance displays, martial arts demonstrations, fashion shows, art exhibitions, and a colorful cultural parade. Special highlights of the festival include a K-Pop cover dance competition on Friday and a concert featuring singer-songwriter Voy Kwan on Saturday. These exciting events aim to draw large crowds and provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.

The festival will also introduce several interactive workshops where attendees can learn more about different cultural practices, alongside various activities specifically designed for children. In addition to the performances and workshops, attendees can explore artisan shopping, showcasing unique crafts and goods from various Asian and Pacific Islander cultures.

The Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Foundation has been organizing the festival since 2017, with the event growing in popularity each year and attracting tens of thousands of visitors. The festival not only promotes the traditions and customs of participating cultures but also fosters cultural awareness and inclusion within the West Michigan community.

Many of the artists and performers at the festival are traveling from major cities such as New York and Chicago, bringing diverse talents and perspectives that enhance the celebration. The foundation aims to create a platform for cultural exchange and appreciation, encouraging unity among different communities.

For those planning to attend, the recommended parking option is the Government Center Parking Ramp located beneath Calder Plaza, with additional city-owned parking lots nearby providing convenient access to the festival’s activities.

Visitors are encouraged to stay informed about the festival schedule and any potential changes by following the festival’s Facebook page. Overall, the Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of culture and diversity, offering an engaging and memorable experience for all attendees.