The Raagaleena Dance Academy perform cultural dances during the Asian Heritage Celebration on April 15 at Levitt Pavilion. The academy performed twice to “Ganesh Stuthi” and “Jatiswaram” during the event.
Levitt Pavilion and the Asian Advisory Council will be hosting their third annual Asian Heritage Celebration from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 19.
When Mayor Jim Ross was elected in 2021, he formed multiple committees to represent various groups in Arlington, one of them being the Asian Advisory Council. The council created the annual Asian Heritage Celebration to bring an event to downtown Arlington where everyone can experience Asian culture.
The cultural event is focused on showcasing authentic representation through music, dance and activities, said Angela Peña, Levitt Pavilion communications and program development director.
According to the council, there will be performances and crafts from over 20 Asian countries, including music and dances from Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Food trucks will be on-site, and the event is open to all.
Some authentic activities include authentic Japanese Sumo wrestling matches, interactive lion dancing and traditional Chinese musical instrument performances.
“That’s just something that you would never experience,” Peña said. “Because where would you go find a sumo wrestling match in Arlington?”
A few of the educational vendors at the event will teach attendees about Chinese tea, how to do calligraphy and about jewelry from Asian countries.
Open seating is available on the lawn of the pavilion and it is recommended to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Parking and admission are free.
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