By Jim Carchidi
January 6, 2026
Festival Park will host one of the nation’s largest Asian culture festivals when Panda Fest makes its first stop in Orlando, February 27-March 1.
“We are thrilled to announce our first city for 2026 and first-ever event in Orlando, jumpstarting our biggest year yet,” said founder BiuBiu Xu, who believes the festival will compliment Orlando’s diverse and family-friendly community. “After selling out in city after city, we know Orlando is ready for the panda-monium, and we can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable weekend of food, culture and fun all coming together.”
Serving something special
Panda Fest began as a one-day event in New York City and has grown in less than two years to a weekend-long celebration spanning 11 cities. Photos courtesy of Panda Fest
Traditional and modern Asian dishes, art, and performances are featured throughout the three-day event.
Panda Fest debuted in 2024 as an immersive showcase of Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures with food vendors, markets, and live entertainment. Xu, a former entertainment blogger, began creating immersive experiences in 2018 with The Egg House pop-up experience. Her love of food and a desire to share her culture inspired the creation of additional events, including New York's Dragon Fest and Thai Fest.
She grew Panda Fest from a one-day event in New York to a yearly, multi-day celebration touring 12 cities with more than 100 national and local vendors offering food and artisan goods. Traditional arts from calligraphy to lion dances are presented next to modern K-pop dance routines and theatrical performances.
Improving the process
Rapid growth has not outpaced Xu’s desire to incorporate feedback and team members have used guest comments to enhance the experience. Additions include:
- Efficient entry procedures with more staffing
- Timed ticketing options to provide greater flexibility
- Budget-friendly menu options under $15
- Additional drink stations
- Shaded VIP seating
- Increased festival ground signage to aid navigation
Admission and updates
Ticket sales begin Thursday, Jan. 8, at 10 a.m. and range from limited $10 Early Bird sales to $14 General Admission tickets and VIP admission that includes additional amenities and gifts.
Visit www.pandafests.com for ticket information and vendor applications. Updates, vendor spotlights and previews will be posted on the Instagram account.
Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.
About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.
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