Panda Fest, one of the biggest outdoor Asian food and cultural festivals in the U.S., is coming to the Valley this Nov. 21-23 and will be held at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick in Scottsdale.
It’s the first time the event will be in Arizona, and it will feature hundreds of Asian food vendors, artisans, theatrical performers, and more.
Founded by BiuBiu Xu, the creator of New York City’s acclaimed Dragon Fest, Panda Fest began as a one-day pop-up and quickly grew into a multi-city, multi-day festival. It has sold out in cities including Boston, Charlotte, Twin Cities Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Seattle, Atlanta, and Philadelphia, with plans to return to all in 2026. Scottsdale marks the final stop in the 2025 event season.
“The Panda Fest team is thrilled to offer hard-to-access authentic flavors from across the globe to Valley foodies and families,” says Xu. “If you’re craving sights, smells and spices from home, or looking to appreciate culture through supporting Asian artists and performers, Panda Fest offers something for everyone.”
WHAT TO EXPECT
At the Valley’s first-ever Panda Fest, take a culinary journey across the region with more than 120 authentic and fusion food vendors, and a curated marketplace of more than 30 artists offering crafts, clothing, accessories and artisan goods inspired by Asian heritage. Traditional arts like sugar painting, calligraphy and paper cutting will be featured alongside modern K-pop dance routines, lion dances, theatrical performances and more.
The iconic panda will also take center stage. Expect Instagram-worthy installations such as a 15-foot inflatable panda, a panda bounce ring, themed treats, souvenirs, and games.
IF YOU GO …
WHEN:
Fri., Nov 21: 4-10 p.m.
Sat., Nov. 22: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Sun., Nov. .23: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
WHERE:
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
TICKETS:
General admission: $14, includes entry to the festival and two complimentary gifts: a customized panda-themed pin with a Phoenix-exclusive design and an inflatable headband ($11 value).
VIP tickets: $35 and include access to upgraded perks such as shaded seating, VIP restrooms, exclusive experiences, a private bar, and a Panda Fest tote bag.
Available at pandafests.com.
