Don’t miss the inaugural Festival this August!
By Jillian Chandler
There is an incredible event making its debut this August in Tacoma—the South Tacoma Heritage Festival! This event aims to unite all who call this place home and celebrate our beautifully and uniquely diverse community right here in South Tacoma.
The 2023 Heritage Festival is a two-day event that celebrates community diversity while promoting cross-cultural solidarity. “South Tacoma, with its multicultural tapestry and diverse businesses, is the perfect backdrop for a festival that honors the richness of diversity,” shares Lua Pritchard, executive director of Asia Pacific Cultural Center. “The South Tacoma Heritage Festival aims to bring together residents from all walks of life, fostering unity and appreciation for the varied cultures that thrive within the community.” If you’re looking to be captivated and inspired, this event promises to deliver through a variety of artistic and educational experiences. Audiences will be wowed by dance performances showcasing the beauty and grace of diverse cultural traditions from across the world, from traditional dances to contemporary expressions. In addition to dance, there’s the music! Featuring a lineup of talented performers taking center stage to share melodies and rhythms from different corners of the globe (from soul-stirring ballads to energetic beats), intended to evoke emotions and unite festival goers through the universal language of music. Then there are the cultural presentations intended to open hearts, ears and eyes to the histories, customs and traditions of various communities. “Experts and cultural ambassadors will share their knowledge, giving attendees a unique opportunity to learn and engage with different cultural perspectives,” says Lua.
To ignite a passion for knowledge and innovation, and inspire the next generation, there will be science and engineering-themed learning opportunities, opening the doors to possibilities and career paths in these fields.
The younger kids will enjoy engaging, age-appropriate and educational activities as well.
And don’t forget the Scavenger Hunt, in which attendees are invited and encouraged to meet and visit with the numerous participating local businesses. This is a wonderful way to meet your neighbors here in South Tacoma and support the local business community.
“The festival serves as a testament to the power of unity, diversity and cross-cultural solidarity. It is an opportunity for South Tacoma residents to come together, celebrate their shared heritage, and forge lasting connections,” smiles Lua.
It is anticipated that thousands of festival goers will make their way to Asia Pacific Cultural Center (located at 4851 South Tacoma Way in Tacoma) throughout the duration of the two-day event. Those who are interested in being a vendor or setting up a food booth at this year's festival, you can apply online at AsiaPacificCulturalCenter.org.
This promises to be an incredible cultural event to showcase your products and/or services, including delicious culinary delights.
Mark your calendars for August 12 and 13, gather your friends and family, and attend this year’s South Tacoma Heritage Festival to celebrate the vibrant spirit of the community and celebrate the beauty and diversity found right here at home. Hours of the event are 11am to 6pm both days.
For more information, visit AsiaPacificCulturalCenter.org.
This event is being supported by the South Tacoma Business District Association, Safe Streets, Metro Parks, CJ, and Associates. Sponsored by Tacoma Creates, Tacoma Pierce County Health Department, Asia Pacific Cultural Center and the City of Tacoma.
Asia Pacific Cultural Center 4851 South Tacoma Way Tacoma, Washington 253.383.3900 AsiaPacificCulturalCenter.org