STATE COLLEGE — State College’s annual celebration of Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi American culture returns for its fourth year, as the 2026 APIDA Festival promises to bring lively performances, vibrant music, and flavorful cuisine to Fraser Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 18.
More than two dozen vendors from State College and the Centre Region will line Fraser Street and offer everything from soaps, candles and creams to Ibori art and delectable confections from Happy Valley Sweets.
May marks Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.
“It is more important than ever to celebrate diversity and ensure the safety and support of all marginalized groups within Centre County, as well as America as a whole, especially since this is the 250th Anniversary of the United States’ independence,” said Gracy Franco Prasanna, Penn State APIDA Caucus President. Community groups and performers from different genres are sure to entertain attendees of all ages.
Headliners this year include the Steel Dragon Dancers, Sangat (multi-cultural instrumentalist), Indian American singer-songwriter Sudha Mokkapati, and Kalanikethanaya, the Sri-Lankan Dance and Music School of New Jersey.
Student-led groups from Penn State University’s University Park campus, such as RAAGA, the Penn State Filipino Association, RAM Squad, Penn State Natya, Penn State Writers Organizing to Represent Diverse Stories, and the Society for Indian Music and Arts, will showcase their talents for guests.
Students from Mount Nittany Middle School and Park Forest Middle School will also entertain with musical performances.
APIDA Festival organizers will bring in Fatema’s Kitchen and Silver Spoon for food options. Participating organizations will also partner with a handful of local restaurants for fundraising efforts.
Penn State’s APIDA Caucus is a 15-member group that represents the undergraduate Asian Pacific Islander community at the University Park campus. The caucus works with other campus groups and the Paul Robeson Cultural Center to organize events, activities, and programs that offer students support, solidarity, and a sense of community.
“Every year, we get together to celebrate the culture of Asian, Desi, and Pacific Islander communities,” said Andy Zheng, APIDA Caucus Vice President. “We hope to garner solidarity and build community through joy and cultural exchange.”
APIDA Festival is organized by the APIDA Caucus, with sponsorship from Penn State Student Affairs, the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, the Center for the Performing Arts at Penn State, the Pan APIDA Circle, and the Borough of State College.
