Members of the Marshallese Village of Ottumwa, performing onstage Saturday during Celebrasian. Photo: Andrew Houp
(Des Moines, IA) -- Thousands of people have descended on downtown Des Moines for the annual "Celebrasian" festival, which returned to Western Gateway Park Friday and Saturday.
Severe weather over the past week did not hold up any of the scheduled events. Host of Celebrasian, Nu Huynh, with the Iowa Asian Alliance, says Saturday turned out to have perfect weather for an outdoor festival. "I am thinking someone is out there praying and always hoping the best for us, because it is gorgeous and perfect."
According to Huynh, they've had record turnout this year, as in past years, 16 more villages and over 100 vendors, with up to 40 being new vendors for this year. "You know, what's amazing about this event is that every year we think 'wow, we can't outdo ourselves, it's fantastic' and each year, we've grown."
She says volunteers have been planning this weekend's Celebrasian festival since last December.
"I think it's great, lots of things going on, lots of food, just things to see, dancers, it's wonderful," said Debbie Korver, visiting from Urbandale. "It's been a few years since I've been in here, it's a lot bigger than it used to be."
Celebrasian lasts until 10 p.m. on Saturday, and features a headline performance by Roland Abante, from the 2023 season of America's Got Talent. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of authentic Asian cuisine, view and purchase arts and crafts, and see a car show.
Free parking was provided at the Nationwide parking ramp. You can find out more by visiting the Iowa Asian Alliance website.