cincinnati
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
October 16-18, 2026
LOCATION
Smale Riverfront Park
166 W Mehring Wy, Cincinnati, OH 45202
HOURS
Friday: 4pm to 10pm
Saturday: 10 am to 10pm
Sunday: 10 am to 8pm
Merchandise
90+ Asian food vendors
200+ Asian street food
30+ Merchandise vendors
Early Bird - $10 (Ends on 9/13/2026 10PM EDT, or when the 1000 tickets per time slot are sold out, whichever comes first)
General Admission - $14
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 Cincinnati feature, one headband (worth $11)
90+ 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 Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati feature, one headband (worth $11)
- Single entry only on the selected time slot
- Access to Panda Inflatable
- Access to 90+ Asian food vendors
- Access to 30+ merchandise vendors
- Access to Asian culture performances
Pets
Service animals only.
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
• Each guest may bring one (1) factory-sealed water bottle (up to 16.9 oz)
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 (Off‑duty and sworn law enforcement officers are not exempt from this policy. Carrying weapons of any kind, including firearms, is strictly prohibited while attending the event. No exceptions.)
- 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.
- Illegal drugs
pARKING
Closest & Most Convenient
Central Riverfront Garage
Approx. 2–5 minute walk
Multiple entrances from Mehring Way, Race Street, and Joe Nuxhall Way
Lot E
Located directly west of Smale Riverfront Park
Easy access for vendors and production staff
Surface lot with convenient load-in/load-out access.
Good Alternatives (Less Congestion)
Fountain Square South Garage
About a 10–12 minute walk
Large downtown garage
Mabley Place Garage
410 Race St.
About a 12–15 minute walk
Citadel Garage
321 Race St.
About a 12-minute walk
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.