Atlanta’s Atlantic Station was buzzing with energy from September 5th through 7th as Panda Fest made its highly anticipated debut in the city. Known as one of the largest outdoor Asian food festivals in the United States, Panda Fest finally brought its three-day culinary and cultural experience to Atlanta’s Pinnacle Parking Lot—just steps away from ATL Plus Magazine headquarters. With more than 80 Asian food vendors and over 25 merchandise stalls, the festival turned the space into a vibrant playground of flavors, art, and entertainment.
For three days, guests were welcomed into a festival atmosphere that was equal parts family-friendly and foodie heaven. The event grounds were divided into themed sections: a panda shop stocked with exclusive merchandise, a headband booth where visitors collected their signature panda ears, lively bars, a lemonade stand, face painting stations, bounce houses for children, and a central stage showcasing music and dance. The festival was marked by its iconic inflatable panda, a towering symbol of joy with a peach illustration declaring “I Love Atlanta,” instantly becoming a favorite photo-op.
Panda Fest lived up to its reputation with a dazzling lineup of culinary offerings. Dishes represented the richness of the Asian diaspora, from Filipino-Asian specialties to Japanese strawberry shortcakes, Korean hot dogs, Vietnamese fried chicken, and Chinese burgers. Sweet lovers lined up for panda-shaped mochi, shaved ice, coconut pudding, and candy-coated fruit. Matcha and bubble tea were festival staples, while more adventurous eaters indulged in shrimp burgers, spiral potatoes, and even sweet potato ice cream. Importantly, many vegan options ensured inclusivity across dietary preferences.
One attendee, @lakisha_cooks4u2, captured the spirit of the event with her children, noting how much they enjoyed sampling food after food. Her highlights included boba tea, chow mein, piña colada, and an array of carnival-style treats like cotton candy and candy fruit. She described the experience as both fun and fulfilling, a culinary adventure that left her eager to return.
Panda Fest proved itself to be more than just an adult outing—it was carefully designed as a family-friendly space. Strollers were welcome, children under six entered free, and the bounce zones kept little ones entertained. Even pets were part of the fun, as long as they were leashed, vaccinated, and well-behaved. This inclusive environment reflected the organizers’ emphasis on safety, fun, and community.
Beyond the food, Panda Fest created opportunities for guests to experience art and performance. The stage was alive with lion dances, K-pop routines, Thai dance numbers, and traditional music. Artisans demonstrated sugar painting, calligraphy, and paper cutting, while merchandise vendors sold handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing inspired by Asian traditions. These elements transformed the event into more than a food festival—it became a true cultural celebration.
Content creator @dishwithhanna, who previously attended the spring edition, highlighted some of these cultural moments. She praised the efficient check-in process, the festive panda decorations, and the gifts included with admission. Despite battling the heat, she shared her joy at trying delicacies like grilled squid, baos, and Bearology drinks. She even noted the kindness of vendors Amy and Robert from Bearology, who assisted her when she felt faint from the weather. Her story reinforced the strong sense of community and care that ran through the festival experience.
Atlanta’s edition is just one stop on Panda Fest’s national circuit, which spans cities from Connecticut to Phoenix and Seattle. The festival has earned its title as one of the largest Asian food festivals in the country by creating a consistent platform for food, performance, and commerce while tailoring each stop to the character of the host city. For vendors, sponsors, and performers, Panda Fest offers a chance to connect with diverse audiences, while volunteers play key roles in operations from check-in to merchandise sales.
This year’s Atlanta debut made a statement: the city’s appetite for global flavors and multicultural experiences is stronger than ever. The turnout reflected Atlanta’s position as a melting pot for culinary innovation and cultural exchange.
With over 300 potential vendors across its national footprint, Panda Fest is a massive operation that manages to balance scale with local intimacy. In Atlanta, this balance was clear. Festivalgoers didn’t just leave with full stomachs—they left with memories of music, laughter, cultural discovery, and community spirit.
As ATL Plus Magazine captured in photos and coverage, Panda Fest offered something for everyone: a stuffed waffle truck serving inventive flavors like Nutella Oreo and mac & cheese, immersive performances that drew in passersby, and enough panda-themed merchandise to satisfy even the most enthusiastic collector.
In the end, Panda Fest Atlanta wasn’t simply about food; it was about celebrating togetherness in one of the city’s most dynamic spaces. For those who missed it, the festival promises to return, bigger and better, as it continues to expand nationwide. And for those who were there, it was an unforgettable weekend that reminded us how food, culture, and family fun can unite a city.
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