From mouthwatering lumpia to refreshing Thai boba teas bursting with fresh fruit, the sights and smells, tastes and touches captivate you as soon as you enter the annual Wichita Asian Festival at Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center. Next, your ears will tune to hearing music representing a variety of Asian countries, often accompanied by intricate performances such as the Chinese lion dance.

This one-day event, now in its 44th year, is a party for the senses – all while promoting awareness among various Asian cultures, creating an appreciation for the different ethnicities within the Wichita community and providing a way to keep the expression of Asian cultural arts alive. This year’s edition is scheduled for 5 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27. Here are five things to know about the Wichita Asian Festival.

Dances bow with hats at Wichita Asian Festival in Wichita KS

1. Get your tickets in advance 

The Wichita Asian Festival charges a small entry fee of $5 per person; kids 10 years old and younger get in free. There also are a limited number of VIP tickets available for $25, allowing guests to enter the festival one hour early—that means shorter food vendor lines!

The fest is organized by the Wichita Asian Association, founded in 1981 by volunteers wanting to share their culture with the city. Half of the proceeds from ticket purchases go back to supporting the community, specifically in the form of academic scholarships for local youth.

Purchase both early entry and general admission tickets here; note there is an online order processing fee.

crowds gather at Wichita Asian Festival in Wichita KS

2. Come hungry

Make no mistake about it, this is one of Wichita’s most popular foodie events of the year. Under one roof, you can buy food made from family recipes and representing a variety of countries, including China, Philippines, India, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and others.

Dozens of food vendors set up tables, ranging from local restaurants, teahouses and food trucks to churches, student groups and other local organizations selling a variety of sweet and savory deliciousness. There’s also a cash bar offering alcoholic beverages. 

Participants at Wichita Asian Festival dance in Wichita KS

3. Watch the stage

You’ll want to keep an eye on the parade of acts that take the stage throughout the evening. The festival books a rotation of live performances and entertainment. These dance and music presentations highlight different traditions and values of Asian culture.

Cups of boba tea are displayed at Wichita's Asian Festival

4. Shop for unique, handmade items

View traditional clothing and find unique, handmade items.

  • Browse and buy cultural handmade items from craft vendors
  • Artwork and crafts not typically available in Wichita will be on hand, representing seven countries in Asia

Pageant contestants pose in front of a lit "Asian Fest" sign during Wichita's Asian Fest

5. Support the Miss Wichita Asian Festival scholarship pageant

An important part of the festival each year is the Miss Wichita Asian Festival pageant, which empowers women ages 16 to 28 to celebrate their cultures in Kansas and rewards them with scholarships. 2024's winner was Amelia Boor, presenting American Samoa, Amelia is a senior at Eisenhower High School in Wichita.

For more information and updates as the festival nears, visit the Facebook page for the Wichita Asian Association.

If you’re looking for other things to do in Wichita, check out our calendar of events and download the latest visitor guide for more inspiration.