The following is a press release written by Desiree DeMolina for the City of Bloomington.
The Indiana University Asian Culture Center, in partnership with the City of Bloomington, will host Asianfest 2026, an annual celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) heritage, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, 114 East Kirkwood Avenue.
This year’s theme, “Mosaic Traditions: Piecing a Common Ground,” celebrates the shared histories and diverse heritages of AAPI communities within Indiana University and the broader Bloomington community. Through cultural expression, storytelling, and artistic performance, Asianfest invites attendees to reflect, connect, and find peace on common ground.
Asianfest 2026 will take place in two parts at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater:
Cultural and Informational Tabling – 4 to 6 p.m. Attendees can explore cultural and informational booths representing AAPI communities, student organizations, and community partners.
Live Performances and Video Screenings – 7 to 8:30 p.m. The evening staged program will feature live performances and video screenings showcasing AAPI voices, traditions, and artistic expressions.
All events are free and open to the public. No tickets are required.
Asianfest is designed to welcome all members of Indiana University and the wider Bloomington community, regardless of age, cultural affinity, background, or identity.
“Asianfest offers our community an opportunity to celebrate the richness, and vibrancy of Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures,” said Shatoyia Moss, Director of Community and Family Resources. “This event creates space for reflection, connection, and appreciation while strengthening the sense of belonging that makes Bloomington such a special community.”
The event is organized by the Asian Culture Center at Indiana University and supported by community partners committed to uplifting AAPI voices and experiences in Bloomington.
The 2026 Asianfest Planning Committee includes Alex Tran, Ethan Slatkin, Natalie Jessica Ng, Chloe Duggan Ariston, Ankita Dey, Suyash Kumar Neupane, and Chandhini Suresh.
For more information about Asianfest 2026, visit asianresource.indiana.edu or, please contact Shatoyia Moss, at mosss@bloomington.in.gov or 812-349-3430
