Bloomington, Indiana – In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the City of Bloomington, in partnership with Indiana University’s Asian Culture Center, will host the highly anticipated Asianfest on Thursday, March 27, 2025. The event, which is free and open to the public, aims to honor and spotlight the rich cultural contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
Set to take place in two distinct locations, the event promises an exciting mix of cultural performances, food, and interactive activities that will allow attendees to experience the traditions and vibrant history of these diverse communities.
The festival will kick off from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with an outdoor street fair on Kirkwood Avenue, between Walnut and Washington Streets. Attendees can enjoy a variety of food trucks, activity booths, games, and interactive cultural displays. Whether it’s savoring regional Asian dishes or engaging with booths that showcase unique cultural artifacts, the outdoor festival will provide an immersive cultural experience for all ages.
The cultural performances will follow from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, located at 114 E. Kirkwood Avenue. This portion of the evening will feature an array of performances highlighting the artistic traditions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. The performances will include musical acts like a clarinet and saxophone duo and a trio from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, who will perform works inspired by the 2024 Lunar New Year and “Saans,” a piece by Indian American composer Reena Esmail.
For those with a passion for dance, Asianfest will also feature a traditional Filipino dance called Tinikling, presented by the Filipino American Association. Additionally, the Vietnamese Student Association will showcase the graceful and beautiful Fan Hat Dance. These cultural performances aim to celebrate the rich traditions that are an integral part of Bloomington’s diverse community.
Beyond the performances, attendees will also have the opportunity to sample cultural cuisine, giving them a chance to taste regional Asian dishes from various cultures. The event organizers are continuing to announce additional performances and activities, ensuring an action-packed evening.
“This celebration serves as a reminder that our city thrives on the diverse traditions and stories that shape it,” said Andrew Shannon, Safe and Civil City Director. “Asianfest is an opportunity to learn, engage, and honor the contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities while strengthening our shared commitment to inclusion and understanding.”
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander History and Community,” underscores the shared history and cultural diversity within these communities. By fostering cross-cultural connections, the event is not only a celebration but also an opportunity for Bloomington’s residents to learn more about the invaluable contributions that Asian American and Pacific Islander individuals have made to society.
Asianfest is made possible thanks to the support of various community organizations and sponsors dedicated to celebrating Bloomington’s multicultural landscape. For a full list of event partners and sponsors, visit Indiana University’s Asian Culture Center.
The festival will offer more than just a celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander culture. It serves as a testament to the city’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and understanding. The event offers a space for both residents and visitors to connect with one another, engage in meaningful conversations, and reflect on the shared values that unite all communities.
For more information on event updates or additional details, residents are encouraged to visit the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Events website. Those with further questions can also reach out directly to Andrew Shannon, Safe and Civil City Director, at [email protected] or by phone at 812-349-3559.
The Asianfest celebration is sure to be a memorable event that fosters a deeper appreciation for the cultural diversity within Bloomington while shining a light on the stories, traditions, and contributions of the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. Don’t miss out on this exciting celebration of culture, unity, and history.
