St. Petersburg’s waterfront is set to come alive on May 31 as the city hosts the highly anticipated HAAPI Festival at Albert Whitted Park, located at 480 Bayshore Drive SE. Running from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. with free entry, this vibrant celebration—short for “Honoring Asian American & Pacific Islanders”—promises an unforgettable day of food, music, art, and cultural unity.
Organized by the team behind some of the county’s most popular night markets, the HAAPI Festival will feature more than 100 vendors offering a wide variety of street food, crafts, and artisan goods. This free event is presented by the City of St. Petersburg and is designed to spotlight the rich cultural contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
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A waterfront festival packed with entertainment
Attendees can look forward to a full entertainment lineup, including live music by Flo-Raw Music and performances by local bands and DJs. Special guest artists will also take the stage throughout the evening, adding even more excitement to the scenic waterfront venue.
Cultural showcases will include traditional lion and dragon dances, a karate demonstration, robot dance performances, and Asian folk dancing. Meanwhile, younger guests can enjoy new kid-friendly activities, from arts and crafts to interactive games.
Ample food and gorgeous views to savor
Food lovers will have plenty to enjoy, with dozens of local vendors and food trucks serving everything from authentic Asian street eats to sweet treats and fusion fare. Shoppers can browse unique handmade items and discover treasures from independent artisans throughout the park.
Above all, the HAAPI Festival aims to foster community spirit and celebrate cultural diversity. With its family-friendly atmosphere, dynamic programming, and stunning waterfront backdrop, it’s shaping up to be one of the city’s most joyful events of the year.
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