30th Annual Asian Festival, 2010.

The Wichita Asian Association presented its 30th Annual Asian Festival on Saturday, Oct 30th from 5:30 to 10:00 P.M., at Century II, Convention Hall. About 6,000 Asians and non-Asians enjoyed entertainment and experienced cultural enrichment.

Entertainment

Cultural Events: Twenty stage presentations, dances, songs and martial arts from various Asian countries. were presented by local artists.
Miss Asia Scholarship Pageant: Participants from 10 countries showcased their talent in this pageant and thrilled the audience.
Special Events: Calligraphy, hand and face decoration and other unique activities took place.

Food

About 40 food booths representing about 12 countries and 7 art, jewelry, garment and display booths were set up. This is the only time and place in Wichita that the festive goers got an opportunity to taste authentic and exotic Asian food from different Asian countries under one roof.

Due to the popularity of the event and WAA had to rent for the first time the adjoining exhibition hall also and booths were set up in that hall. Even with this additional facility, sometimes there were shoulder to shoulder visitors. Some excellent art and jewelry booths also attracted people

Admission

As always there was no admission charge. However, cash donations were accepted. Food and merchandise was for sale.

Background

This annual event is getting increasingly popular each year. About 6,000 people walk through the festival. This event is supported by (a) advertisers in the program which will be given out at the entrance, (b) sponsorships and grants (c) booth charges and (d) donations. To the best of our knowledge no other city in the neighboring states presents such a colorful and enriching festival. We are glad that we are able to help youth clubs and other related organizations to raise funds for their activities through food booths.

Reasons For Attending

This is the only event under one roof festival goers can witness a variety of cultural and artistic events of about 15 Asian countries. Most of these Asian countries have a unique way of dressing. Some of the Asian countries have special artistic attributes such as hand painting (Hana), face decoration etc. All this can be seen and enjoy.

This is a family event. Children particularly enjoy the events presented in this festival.
This could be a project for Boys Scouts.
Most of the food that is sold is authentic. In some booths people can see the food preparation from scratch.
Thus in many ways this is a unique event.

Award

Most of the food that is sold is authentic. In some booths people can see the food preparation from scratch.
On October 19th 2010, the Mayor made a proclamation that the 30th October is Asian Festival Day.

The Purpose Of Presenting This Festival Is Several Folds
For the Asians to watch and enjoy the programs from their countries which will bring back nostalgic feelings. This festival also has enormous recreational value.
To present and educate about Asian art and culture and culinary art to the community at large. In a diverse community like Wichita, understanding of various cultures is important to promote harmony and peace.
Provide an opportunity for Asian youth and adults to showcase their talent and express their artistic feelings.
The fact that this festival has sustained for 30 years and growing is a testimony of it’s value and popularity.
By setting up booths this festival is enabling many student and religious organizations to raise funds for their associations.