Photo Essay: Knox Asian Festival in Full Color

Words by Leslie Bateman; photos by Scott Thompson. 

It was so hot you could’ve steamed dumplings on the sidewalk at this year’s Knox Asian Festival. But that didn’t deter crowds from pouring into World’s Fair Park on Sunday for one of Knoxville’s biggest and most colorful celebrations of the year. Asian Culture Center of Tennessee’s signature festival was a full day of demonstrations, educational exhibits, nonstop live entertainment and, of course, food. I just wish there was a way to sample one bite from each of the 50 vendors!

Asian Culture Center of Tennessee’s signature festival kicked off with the Asian Cultural Parade, led by the mayor of Knoxville’s sister city, Muroran, Japan, which I wrote about last week …

… followed by a welcome from Knoxville’s own.

More parade photos:

The festival also welcomed special guest Yoshitoshi “Yoshi” Momoki, a University of Tennessee alumnus who founded the Good Ole Tennessee Bar in Tokyo. Momoki hosted a Tennessee Whiskey Pavilion in partnership with the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. Here’s a fun mini-documentary by Ben Csoka Productions: 

Featured performers included legendary Japanese taiko drumming ensemble Matsuriza, the Columbus Koto Ensemble, shakuhachi artist Shawn Head, Korean Fan Dancers and many more representing cultures from across Asia.

When it comes to capturing the spirit of Knox Asian Festival, though, a picture really is worth a thousand words. Scott Thompson, who photographed the festival so gorgeously for IOK last year, once again chronicled the day. He stayed from beginning to end and, while no doubt a little wilted by the finish, emerged with dozens of captivating images.

We’re so excited to share them with you. You can follow Scott’s work on Facebook and Instagram.

Big cheers to Kumi and crew for once again pulling off Knoxville’s most colorful party of the year. Enjoy!

The Asian Culture Center of Tennessee’s programming and community outreach continues year-round. Learn more at the website here.