Asian Festival to take place this weekend in Mesa with cultural performances, vendor booths

PHOENIX — A free Asian Festival this weekend in Mesa hopes to build a greater understanding of Asian countries and cultures among the general public.

The cultural event, located at the North Sycamore and Main Street Light Rail Station, takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and will feature over 30 vendor booths and 10 Asian food trucks.

More than 15 Asian cultures will be represented at the festival, according to the official website, with each having a chance to share their unique music, cultural performances, food, fashion and handicrafts.

Among the items up for sale at the festival are Chinese New Years gifts, lanterns, clothing, herbs and tea, and handmade candles. People can also take part in health screenings and education, as well as civic engagement information.

Colorful performances of music and dance occur throughout the day, according to the website, including a Lions Dance and Blessing Dance during the opening ceremony at 11 a.m.

Children can design a lantern and take part in other arts and crafts projects, as well as participate in activities about Disney and Pixar’s upcoming animated movie “Turning Red” that comes to theatres in March.

The city of Mesa and Valley Metro are partnering with the festival, which is also serving as an unveiling of Asian District signage at the Sycamore and Main Street Light Rail Station.

More than 5,000 people are expected to attend the festival, according to the website.

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