Queens’ MarketPlace Asian Fest

The Queens’ MarketPlace will present a public celebration to kick off the Year of the Sheep. Asian Fest will be held on Friday, Feb. 7 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

High-energy lion dancers, Filipino dancers, food tasting, powerful Taiko drums, and dramatic colors will fill the marketplace during the free event.

“We’re so lucky to have these great performers at our Asian Fest,” said Sales & Operations Manager Margo Mau Bunnell. “It’s an exciting opportunity for everyone to hear three different drumming styles from Japan and Okinawa – with thundering drums that will literally launch the New Year with a big band.”

At 7:20 p.m. hundreds of mini-firecrackers will ignite at Island Gourmet Markets. The firecrackers will wake the spirits and send off good luck wishes while the lively lion dancers dance around the shopping center.

The lions will “eat” red envelopes (lycee), which onlookers can fill with donation for good luck in the year ahead.

Attendees can expect to find various activities throughout the marketplace, including tasting booths that will feature various samplings of Asian food culture from local restaurants, like Mango Sticky Rice from Charley’s Thai Cuisine, Teriyaki Pork from Island Gourmet Markets, Orange Chicken from Lemongrass Express, and other delicious desserts like ice cream and green tea frappuccino’s

Asian Fest’s Entertainment Schedule is as follows:

5 p.m., Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko (Okinawan Style percussion and dance group)

5:55 p.m., Hawai’i Lion Dance Association: Meet & Greet

6:30 p.m., Kona Daifukuji Taiko

7 p.m., Visayan Club (Filipino Dancers)

7:20 p.m. Hawai’i Lion Dance Association: Lion Dance (Begins at Island Gourmet Markets)

7:30 p.m., Hui Okinawan Kobudo Taiko