San Diego is getting its first Panda Fest this spring, and if you’ve been following this festival’s growth across the country, you know it’s a pretty big deal.

The two-day event takes over Waterfront Park, transforming the space into a full-on celebration of Asian food, culture, performances, and all things panda. With views of San Diego Bay as the backdrop, it’s set up to be way more than just another food festival.

Why San Diego Made Sense

BiuBiu Xu, Founder of Panda Fest, says San Diego quickly rose to the top of the list when they were planning where to go next. The city’s rich Asian communities and diversity made it an obvious choice, and San Diego’s well-known love for pandas sealed the deal.

The festival is dedicating a full weekend of programming to celebrating culture and community through food and performances, which is a commitment you don’t see everywhere.

Over 200 Dishes From 80+ Vendors

Throughout the weekend, you can sample more than 200 dishes from over 80 food vendors representing cuisines from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond.

The offerings range from authentic street food favorites to creative fusion bites, so there’s something whether you’re looking for traditional flavors or something more experimental. Beyond the food, there’s a curated marketplace with over 30 vendors showcasing Asian-inspired crafts, apparel, accessories, and specialty goods.

Cultural Programming and Live Entertainment

The festival features a full schedule of cultural programming, including traditional art demonstrations, contemporary dance performances, and theatrical showcases.

While final programming will be announced closer to the event, previous editions have included traditional lion dances, cultural arts like sugar painting, paper cutting, and calligraphy, alongside contemporary performances including K-pop dance crews, Chinese Lion Dances, and Japanese Sword/Kendo and Samurai demonstrations.

The entertainment runs throughout both days, so you’re never far from something happening.

Panda-Themed Attractions Everywhere

Pandas are at the heart of the experience, brought to life through a 15-foot inflatable panda, a panda bounce ring, themed desserts, exclusive merchandise, interactive games, and countless photo-worthy moments scattered throughout the festival grounds.

It’s playful without being cheesy, and the panda theme ties everything together in a way that works for both kids and adults.

Ticket Options and What’s Included

Early Bird tickets are $11 and go on sale Friday, February 13 at 10 AM, running through February 22 at 10 PM or while supplies last. General Admission tickets are $15, and VIP tickets are $35. Saturday tickets are priced $2 higher across all tiers.

General Admission gets you single entry during your selected time slot, access to all food and merchandise vendors, cultural performances, panda attractions, and two complimentary gifts: a customized Atlanta Panda pin and a panda headband.

VIP ticket holders get all General Admission benefits plus fast-pass entry, access to exclusive VIP areas and bathrooms, and an exclusive Panda bag.

See you there!

San Diego’s Asian communities have been waiting for something like this, and Panda Fest’s debut looks like it’s going to deliver on the scale and quality people expect.

📆 Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26, 2026
📍 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego
🎟️ Get your tickets here
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!