san diego
PANDA FEST is one of the biggest outdoor Asian food festivals in the US with experiential activities, tastings, and market fairs that showcases the vibrant food, art and cultural traditions from Asia.
2026 TIME
APRIL 25-26, 2026
LOCATION
Waterfront Park
1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
HOURS
Saturday: 10 am to 10pm
Sunday: 10 am to 8pm
Merchandise
80+ Asian food vendors
200+ Asian street food
30+ Merchandise vendors
Early Bird - $11 (Ends on 3/1/2026)
General Admission - $15
VIP - $35
*Saturday tickets will be $2 more.
Tickets are non-refundable
How much for ticket？
What can I expect？
2 FREE GIFTS: one customized Panda pin with San Diego feature, one headband (worth $11)
80+ Asian food vendors
200 + Asian street food
30 + Merchandise vendors
Asian culture performance
Panda related merchandise
Panda inflatable
Panda bounce house
What does a VIP ticket include?
- 3 free gifts: one customized Panda pin with San Diego feature, one headband, one amazing bag (worth $28)
- All GA benefits
- Fast pass for entrance
- Exclusive VIP areas and bathrooms
What does GA ticket include?
- 2 free gifts: one customized Panda pin with San Diego feature, one headband (worth $11)
- Single entry only on the selected time slot
- Access to Panda Inflatable
- Access to 80+ Asian food vendors
- Access to 30+ merchandise vendors
- Access to Asian culture performances
Pets
Sorry, no pets of any kind, including comfort/emotional support, therapy or companion animals.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
Sorry, no outside food or beverages are allowed.
Exceptions:
• Medical dietary items are permitted
• Baby formula and milk for infants/toddlers are permitted
Kids
Yes! We are Family-Friendly!
- Strollers are allowed
- Children ages 6 and up require a ticket
- Children under 6 do not need a ticket. They will receive a free headband (pins are not included)
pROHIBITED ITEMS
The following are not allowed on festival grounds:
- Weapons of any kind (Includes pocket knives, etc.)
- Roller skates or skateboards
- Self-defense sprays (pepper spray)
- We strictly prohibit the use, possession, or consumption of any combustible, vaporized, or aerosolized products on our premises. This includes, but is not limited to: Tobacco cigarettes, electronic cigarettes / e-cigarettes / vaping devices, cannabis / marijuana smoke or vapor, and any form of smoking, vaping, or inhaling substances.
- Drugs or drug paraphernalia, or illegal substances
- Chairs of any kind
- Aerosol can of any kind
- Professional recording equipment – photo, video, or audio (no detachable lenses, tripods, big zooms or commercial use rigs)
- Glass cans, cups or coolers
- Water canteens (Ex: Hydroflask, Stanley)
- Drones
- Tents / Canopies
- Unauthorized solicitations, stickers, flyers, handbills, sampling, giveaways & etc.
pARKING
We encourage rideshare or public transit. It's the most convenient way to join us. However, if you choose to drive, here are your parking options:
Closest Options (Immediate Vicinity)
1. Waterfront Parking (Parking Lot)
∙ Location: B Street Pier
∙ Hours: Open 24 hours
∙ Price: $20 minimum for 0-3 hours
∙ Phone: +1 619-233-2000
2. 1600 Pacific Hwy Garage (Parking Garage)
∙ Location: 954 W Ash St
∙ Price: Information limited, but noted as often full
∙ Note: Part of Waterfront Park area
3. B Street Pier Parking (Parking Garage/Lot)
∙ Location: 1140 N Harbor Dr
∙ Hours: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
∙ Price: Similar to Waterfront Parking (~$20 for 3 hours)
∙ Phone: +1 619-233-2000
4. ACE Parking Public Garage
∙ Location: 925 Waterfront Pl
∙ Hours: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM
∙ Price: ~$30 for 4 hours (varies)
∙ Note: Has EV chargers; mixed reviews about payment systems
Nearby Options (Within 0.5 Miles)
5. Little Italy Parking Garage
∙ Location: 715 W Cedar St
∙ Hours: Weekdays 5 PM – 2 AM; Weekends 6 AM – 2 AM
∙ Price: $5/hour, $15 maximum per day
∙ Note: Good for electric vehicles with charging
6. Public Parking
∙ Location: 1050 Columbia St
∙ Price: $10 for sunset viewing; higher for longer stays
∙ Phone: +1 619-814-4200
∙ Note: No re-entry allowed; has had customer service issues
7. Park It On Market (Parking Garage)
∙ Location: 614 Market St
∙ Hours: Open 24 hours
∙ Price: $5 from 6 PM – 3 AM; $1/hour otherwise; ~$65-68 for 3 days
The closest and most convenient options are the Waterfront Parking and B Street Pier Parking directly near the park. Little Italy Parking Garage offers the best day rate at $15/day if you’re staying longer.
Reminder: Panda Fest is not affiliated with parking facilities, rideshare areas, or private lots. Please watch for signage + fees, avoid no-parking zones, and do not leave valuables in your vehicle. We are not responsible for towing, loss, or damage.
REFUND
All tickets are non-refundable.