DES MOINES, Iowa — CelebrAsian is set to return to Western Gateway Park for a two-day celebration of Asian cultures, bringing authentic food, cultural exhibits, live entertainment and family-friendly activities to downtown Des Moines. Organizers describe it as Iowa’s largest Asian American event, with festivities planned from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on May 22 and 23.
The festival invites Iowans to experience the warmth, flavors and traditions of Asia without leaving the state. Attendees can expect a wide-ranging lineup of performances and presentations designed to highlight the richness and diversity of Asian heritage. WHO 13 is a proud sponsor of the longtime event.
Friday’s entertainment lineup includes Open Karaoke at noon, Teri Underhill at 1 p.m., Songs of Siam at 2 p.m., Andrew Hoyt at 3 p.m. and the Vida Sisters at 4 p.m. The evening continues with performances from Taalmaash, Aloha Wind, Iowa Parai Kuzhu, Build2Break, Brinley and Khloe, S.A.F.E. and Illusion by DJ Fuzon closing out the night from 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday’s schedule begins with opening remarks at 11 a.m., followed by performances representing Cambodian, Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Japanese, Lao, Nepalese, Tai Dam, Thai and Vietnamese traditions. The day also features martial arts demonstrations, the Sasago Oiwake Puppet Theatre, the CelebrAsian Fashion Show and Unity Song, the CelebrAsian Scholars and Village Awards Presentation, Asian Queens, Toney Chem and a closing performance from Gimikk from 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Among the Saturday highlights, festivalgoers can see Soten Taiko bring traditional Japanese drumming to the stage, watch vibrant village performances from across Asia and experience a puppet theater tradition with roots going back 300 years. The event also blends cultural celebration with modern entertainment, from runway fashion and youth performances to high-energy music and dance acts.
CelebrAsian has become one of the metro’s most anticipated annual events, offering a chance for families and visitors to connect with cultures from across Asia in one central location. With live performances throughout both days, organizers say the festival is designed to be an immersive and welcoming celebration for the entire community.
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