Ep. 158: Panda Fest Returns to Mall of America

On this episode, we sit down with Panda Fest Founder BiuBiu Xu to explore the story behind one of the nation's fastest-growing outdoor Asian food and culture festivals. Returning to the North Lot July 31–August 2, Panda Fest will feature more than 80 vendors, over 200 dishes, artisan shopping, cultural performances, and immersive panda-themed experiences for guests of all ages.   BiuBiu shares how Dragon Fest inspired the creation of Panda Fest, why Mall of America became the perfect home for the festival's Minnesota expansion, and what lessons were learned from its successful debut last year. We also discuss the event's remarkable growth, the importance of celebrating culture through food, and what first-time attendees won't want to miss.   1:30     How Panda Fest started in New York City as a street fair and continues to grow 4:00     The uplifting message behind using the panda as the symbol for the festival 10:45    How the festival connects to the Asian culture…beyond food 13:45    Family elements that are featured at the festival, performances and more 19:00    All about the food (new, unique and fan favorites) at the fest 24:15    Advice for first-time visitors to Panda Fest   Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/events/view/37373 Visit: PandaFestMOA   Guests: BiuBiu Xu, Panda Fest Founder   Hosts: Jill Renslow, Daniel Jasper   Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.