Event Details
Panda Fest, one of the nation’s fastest-growing outdoor Asian food and culture festivals, is excited to make its debut in Chicago taking place Friday–Sunday, August 28-30, 2026, at 445 E. Monroe, Butler Field. Spanning three days, the festival brings together a vibrant mix of Asian cuisine, artisanal merchandise, panda-inspired attractions, and cultural performances, offering guests an immersive celebration of food, art, and tradition. More than just a food festival, Panda Fest is a large-scale cultural experience designed to showcase the richness and diversity of Asian cultures in a dynamic, family-friendly setting.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT PANDA FEST Chicago: Attendees can embark on a culinary journey across Asia with 100+ food vendors and 20+ merchandise vendors serving 200+ dishes representing cuisines from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond. From authentic street food staples to inventive fusion bites, Panda Fest offers something for every palate. Visitors can try sweet or savory food from across the country along with Chicago favorites such as Chicago’s own Hong Kong Phooey, Kinnaree Thai Kitchen, Te’Amo Boba & Desserts and more.
Beyond food, the festival features a curated marketplace showcasing crafts, apparel, accessories, and artisanal goods inspired by Asian heritage. Cultural programming spans traditional art demonstrations, contemporary dance, theatrical showcases, and nonstop live entertainment. While the final lineup will be announced closer to the event, previous editions of Panda Fest have included lion dances, sugar painting, paper cutting, and calligraphy, and K-pop dance performances.
Pandas remain at the heart of the experience, with playful, Instagram-worthy attractions, including a 15-foot inflatable panda, a panda bounce ring, themed treats, exclusive merchandise/souvenirs, interactive games, and photo moments throughout the festival grounds.