Panda-monium is headed to The City Beautiful as Panda Fest, one of the nation’s fastest-growing Asian food and culture festivals, kicks off its year with an Orlando debut next month.
Founded by Chinese-American entrepreneur BiuBiu Xu, the event that began as a one-day New York City pop-up in 2024 has since swept the nation, expanding into a multi-day, multicity celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander culture.
It’s headed to Orlando’s Festival Park, where guests will enjoy a weekend of delicious food, live performances, and arts and crafts from vendors both local and national. An interactive panda-themed experience will be on hand, as well, designed for all ages.
With successful celebrations in cities including Phoenix, Dallas, Atlanta, Boston, Nashville and more under its belt, Panda Fest’s Orlando debut will mark its biggest year yet, Xu said in a news release.
“We are thrilled to announce our first city of 2026 and first-ever event in Orlando … an extra meaningful milestone to us,” she said. “We know the Panda Fest fans have been waiting for an event in Orlando, which has such a vibrant, diverse and family-friendly community that is perfect for Panda Fest.”
Set to be held at Festival Park (2911 E. Robinson St. in Orlando), the event will run all weekend long: 4-10 p.m. Feb. 27, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Feb. 28 and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. March 1.
More than 80 food vendors and trucks, showcasing 200+ dishes from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam and beyond, will be on site, along with a curated marketplace of 20+ vendors showcasing crafts, clothing, accessories and artisan goods inspired by Asian heritage.
Food is among Panda Fest’s biggest draws, featuring 80+ vendors showcasing dishes from across Asia. (Courtesy Panda Fest)
And performances? There will be many, from K-pop to lion dancers and more.
Pandas, of course, figure heavily, including games, myriad photo-ops (15-foot inflatable panda, anyone?), a panda bounce ring and loads of themed treats and souvenirs to enjoy.
Vendors abound, featuring all manner of souvenirs and plenty of panda-centric goodies. (Courtesy Panda Fest)
Tickets are on sale starting Jan. 8, with a limited number of early bird opportunities ($10) available through Jan. 10. General admission ($14) includes festival entry and two complimentary gifts (a custom Orlando pin and inflatable panda headband). VIP tickets ($35) include upgrades such as shaded seating, VIP restrooms, exclusive experiences, a private bar and a Panda Fest tote bag.
Dancers perform at Panda Fest Nashville. Panda Fest makes its Orlando debut next month, with weekend-long fun in Festival Park. (Courtesy WilanrieBPhotography/Panda Fest)
Panda Fest is a rain or shine event.
For more information (tickets, vendor applications and more) visit pandafests.com. Follow Panda Fest on Instagram (@pandafestorlando) for festival updates, vendor spotlights and sneak peeks.
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