Tampa Republic

Tampa is gearing up to host the 2024 Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival in celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. The event, organized by Mayor Jane Castor and the City of Tampa, aims to highlight the cultural diversity of the AAPI community.

Mayor Jane Castor expressed the city's enthusiasm for the festival, stating, "In Tampa, we embrace diversity as our strength and celebrate the many cultures that make our city dynamic." She emphasized the importance of honoring the heritage of all community members and providing an opportunity for everyone to learn about new cultures.

The festival, scheduled to take place at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on May 11, will feature a range of activities and performances representing various Asian countries and regions. Attendees can look forward to Asian cultural performances, delicious delicacies, authentic Asian wares, informational exhibits, a beauty pageant, and a singing competition. The event will showcase cultures from Korea, Philippines, China, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, India, Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, as well as the Hawaiian and South Pacific Islands.

Organized by the Mayor's Asian American Pacific Islander Council, the event aims to showcase the beauty and richness of AAPI cultures and traditions within the Tampa community. It is set to be a vibrant celebration of diversity and heritage, welcoming all members of the public to participate.

For those interested in media coverage or seeking more information about the festival, contact Nerissa Lamison at nlamison@hccfl.edu or (813) 486-7446. The event promises to be Tampa's biggest Asian Pacific Islander celebration of the year, providing a platform for cultural exchange and appreciation.