What’s black and white and has delicious food all over?
If you guessed Panda Fest, you’d be correct.
This weekend, Panda Fest returned to Philadelphia after its run last spring. Dilworth Park was packed with festivalgoers ready to celebrate food, culture, and community.
“I’m here for the food, I’m here for the culture, and I’m here to have fun,” said Drexel student Rav Uppal.
At Panda Fest, pandas aren’t just cute faces — they’re a symbol of Asian culture. Performances throughout the day showcased traditional and modern expressions from across Asia, while food vendors served everything from street snacks to sweets.
“Not only has the good food, but it also has the good vibes,” said Philadelphia influencer Matthew Phun, who emceed the event. “By bringing in festivals like this, it just shows that Philly is united and really a melting pot.”
For vendor Yaminah Granger, the long day was worth it.
“The new foods I’ve tried here have been phenomenal,” Granger said. “I thought I had a good experience with Asian culture, but coming here and actually seeing it in the flesh has given me such a broader perspective.”
Temple University’s K-pop dance crew, The Cherry Bombs, also took the stage.
“Getting to do hip hop and contemporary stuff really brings the cultures together,” said dancer Leah Duffy.
From the food to the performances, Panda Fest served as a reminder of Philadelphia’s unity — and the shared joy that comes from experiencing something new.
As Granger put it, “If you’re ever scared to try something, just jump right in. That’s how you start swimming.”
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