San Diego is set to welcome a major new addition to its spring cultural calendar. Panda Fest, recognized as the largest Asian culture and food festival in the United States, will make its debut in the city, taking over the scenic Waterfront Park on April 25th and 26th, 2026.
The two-day festival is designed as an immersive, family-friendly celebration of Asia’s diverse traditions with a vibrant atmosphere where food, art, and entertainment converge to create an engaging and colorful experience for all ages.
Attendees can embark on an Asian culinary journey, sampling over 200 dishes from more than 80 vendors. The offerings will represent a wide array of flavors including China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond. Complementing the food will be an artisanal market, offering a variety of handcrafted goods.
The festival will also feature live performances that include traditional dances, high-energy K-pop, and cultural demonstrations as well as panda-centric activities, highlighted by a giant inflatable panda, a popular spot for photos.
Early Bird tickets are priced at $11 and will go on sale Friday, February 13th at 10:00 a.m. General admission will be available for $15, with a VIP option for those seeking an elevated experience.
Blending tradition, cuisine, and contemporary entertainment, Panda Fest is poised to be one of the season’s most vibrant cultural showcases.
