Panda Fest Brings Food, Culture & Fun to Nashville This October
Nashville welcomes Panda Fest this October, a three-day celebration of Asian food, culture, and panda-themed fun at Fair Park. Image: Panda Fest
Nashville is about to experience a weekend of panda-monium as Panda Fest makes its Music City debut October 24-26, 2025, at Fair Park. Known as one of the nation’s fastest-growing outdoor Asian food and culture festivals, Panda Fest has dazzled crowds in Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, and Seattle — and now it’s bringing its vibrant mix of flavors, performances, and panda-themed fun to Tennessee.
A Feast for the Senses
Festival-goers can explore more than 80 Asian food vendors serving over 250 authentic street food dishes, from sizzling skewers and steaming dumplings to sweet bubble teas and shaved ice. Beyond the food, more than 20 artisan and merchandise vendors are slated to showcase crafts, clothing, and unique goods inspired by Asian traditions.
Entertainment takes center stage with live performances ranging from traditional dance and music to modern K-pop routines, creating a cultural showcase appealing to all ages. And true to its name, Panda Fest adds a playful twist with giant panda inflatables, a panda bounce, and themed merchandise designed for fun photo ops.
Special Perks for Guests
Every attendee receives two free gifts with admission: a Nashville-exclusive Panda Fest pin and a panda headband. VIP ticket holders enjoy even more — a gift bag, fast-pass entry, and access to private lounges, bars, and restrooms.
Early Bird tickets ($10) are available through September 14, 2025, with limited quantities. General Admission is $14 ($16 on Saturday), while VIP tickets are $35. Gate admission is $20, subject to availability, but advance tickets guarantee entry. Kids under 6 get in free, making this a family-friendly outing, and leashed dogs are also welcome.
Plan Your Visit
Festival hours are Friday, October 24, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, October 25, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Parking is available on-site for $10, and visitors should note that only small bags are permitted.
Celebrating the food, art, and traditions of Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures — with a whimsical panda twist — Panda Fest is a can’t-miss event for Nashville this fall.
For tickets, vendor applications, and updates, visit pandafests.com or follow @pandafestnashville on Instagram.
See you at Panda Fest!
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For more festivals, check out our Best Festivals in the South!
Kate Feinberg
Kate Feinberg is a professional writer based in Nashville. She has more than 14 years of freelance writing experience covering travel, wellness, and lifestyle. A certified meditation teacher, RYT-200 yoga instructor, and integrative nutrition health coach, she brings a strong wellness perspective to her work. Kate is also a marathon runner and the creator of a plant-based food blog, Chef Kate F, where she shares nourishing recipes and mindful living tips. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her on the golf course, exploring new destinations, or combining both with golf-focused travel. She enjoys lake life on Percy Priest Lake.