Image shows a crowd of people and a giant inflatable panda bear at Panda Fest.Image shows a crowd of people and a giant inflatable panda bear at Panda Fest.

Photo via Panda Fest TX, LLC

This spring is set to be a festive one for Houstonians. From the H-Town Blues Festival to Frida Fest, Art Car Parade, and more: spring is the season to celebrate. This spring will also see the debut of Panda Fest. Scheduled for three days this May, Panda Fest is one of the largest Asian food festivals in the country. This May, Panda Fest Houston will see over 100 Asian street dishes, a market fair, live performances, and more!

From BiuBiu X, the team behind New York City’s blockbuster Dragon Fest event, Panda Fest is one of the largest, and fastest-growing festivals in the United States. Set to host events in the likes of Nashville, Boston, and Philadelphia this year, the festival will finally make its introduction in Houston this May.

Image shows three dancers performing onstage at Panda Fest. Image shows three dancers performing onstage at Panda Fest. Photo via Panda Fest TX, LLC

Panda Fest Houston will take place from May 8 through May 10, 2026. Hosted at The Water Works in Buffalo Bayou Park, Panda Fest is setting the stage for over 60 Asian food and retail vendors, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities.

Here, visitors can expect over 100 authentic Asian specialties. Imagine baskets of piping-hot dumplings, slurp-able bowls of rich, savory ramen, and humblingly-spicy regional street foods. Whether you’re craving the diverse flavors of China, Korea, Japan, and Thailand or looking to satisfy your sweet tooth with exotic desserts, you’ll find it all at this this massive spread.

Festival-goers can also explore the event’s marketplace. Populated with the likes of dozens of retail vendors, visitors can explore a bustling range of artisan crafts, jewelry, clothing, calligraphy art, teas, and more.

Image shows a plate of dumplings served at Panda Fest. Image shows a plate of dumplings served at Panda Fest. Photo via Panda Fest TX, LLC

Alongside a variety of scheduled cultural performances, the festival – per its name – will also feature a number of panda-themed activities. Particularly great for the kiddos, such events include face-painting, panda crafts activities, panda toys, and more.

Panda Fest in Houston will take place at The Water Works at Buffalo Bayou Park located at 105-B Sabine Street. Tickets to the festival are now on sale starting at $12.70. General admittance tickets include access to the food and retail as well as two free gifts (a headband and custom panda pin). VIP tickets are also available, which include a third gift as well as a fast pass.

See also: The “Pink Casita” pop-up brings Bad Bunny vibes to Houston this May