The New York State Fair is adding an Asian Village to its dedicated spaces that showcase the state’s diverse cultural heritage.
The Asian Village will “recognize the contributions, history, and experiences of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities,” according to a news release from the fair. It will include music, dance, food, and special events.
The Asian Village will be located near Gate 4, not far from the Youth Building on the west side of the fairgrounds. It joins the Indian Village, Pan African Village and Latino Village already operating during the fair.
The specifics of the food options have not been announced, but will include examples of “traditional Asian cuisine,” the fair said.
Entertainment will include singing, drumming and the Lion Dance — traditionally performed at celebrations, business openings, and festivals and at Lunar New Year events. There will also be a fashion show and area dedicated to Ssireum (Korean wrestling).
The 2023 State Fair runs from Wednesday, Aug. 23 to Monday, Sept. 4 (Labor Day). The Asian Village will be open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Opening Day, then open at 2 p.m. in following days.
More information and events will be announced at a later date.
“I’ve always believed that diversity is having a seat at the table, inclusion is having a voice, and belonging is having that voice be heard,” Tai Shaw, superintendent of the Asian Village, said in the news release. “... I’m so grateful to be a part of this year’s Fair, and I’m excited for everyone — especially members of the (Asian American-Pacific Islander) community and New Americans — to experience the positive energy and atmosphere of Asian Village.”
Don Cazentre writes for NYup.com, syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. Reach him at dcazentre@nyup.com, or follow him at NYup.com, on Twitter or Facebook.