Asian culture infuses Bloomington Farmers' Market

FROM IDS REPORTS

The hum of the oud, a traditional Iraqi instrument, wafted throughout the crowd of morning shoppers Saturday, mixing with the twangs of the typical banjos and acoustic guitars.

From 10 a.m. to noon, the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market celebrated Asian Fest with free food, traditional crafts and live music and dance.

People crowded the booths set up in front of City Hall.

People gathered to check out the calligraphy demonstrations, traditional scarves, jewelry and trinkets on sale from Indonesia and China. 

“I think it’s beautiful to let other people explore our culture and let people know more about Asia,” IU freshman Echo Lu said.

Lu volunteers weekly with one of the event’s sponsors, the Asian Culture Center. She said she helps around the office and with other events.

“It’s a great day for it,” IU junior Blake Zamora said while he waited in line to get a henna tattoo. “It makes me want to get in touch with my Asian roots.”

— Michela Tindera