APIDA ARTS FESTIVAL Celebrates the Creativity of Asian, Pacific Island and Desi Americans in Chicago in May

APIDA Arts Festival, Celebrating the Creativity of Asian, Pacific Island and Desi Americans in Chicago, in association with the City of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Goodman Theatre and Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago (MCA), announces its inaugural festival, May 5 - 7, at venues in downtown Chicago.

The mission of the APIDA Arts Festival is to amplify and unify Asian, Pacific Island and Desi/South Asian American artists in Chicago by showcasing their work at premier cultural institutions, providing greater representation, equity and opportunity. APIDA Arts Festival is also calling for submissions to participate in the Festival. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, Feb. 15. Interested artists including painters, musicians, dancers, comedians, film makers, spoken word and others may apply at APIDAArts.org/program.

"As a Korean American performing artist for more than 20 years in Chicago, I wasn't given the same opportunities as my peers," says Executive Director Mia Park. "This festival creates space for Asian, Pacific Island and Desi/South Asian American makers and creators to showcase their work and connect. The aim of the festival is to amplify and unify these voices."

2026 Theater Fans' Choice Awards - Live Stats

Best Sound Design - Top 3

1. Adam Fisher - The Lost Boys

36.2% of votes

2. Tony Gayle - Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)

10.7% of votes

3. Kai Harada - Ragtime

7.2% of votes

Vote Now! View Live Stats