Paper umbrellas were out in full force this Memorial Day weekend. But they weren’t just adorning poolside cocktails; they were shading guests at the Columbus Asian Festival.
Thousands gathered at Franklin Park Conservatory on Saturday and Sunday for the 16th annual Columbus Asian Festival.
Stuffed Pokemon characters lined the top of one booth while a table of mannequin heads sported hats shaped liked video game characters such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Tails. Fans of rival Nintendo character Mario had the chance to snag the famous plumber’s signature red hat.
Bonzai trees, henna tattoos and belly-dancing skirts added to the Asian fare.
Four stages offered workshops, performances and demonstrations. With temperatures in the mid-80s and partly cloudy skies, shaded seating was at a premium.
Only a few stray chairs remained around the main Amphitheater Stage’s cement seating area. Most guests sacrificed a good view in favor of shaded seats in the grass beyond the stage.
The Martial Arts Stage offered demonstrations that included Kung-Fu, Tai Chi, Taekwondo and Aikido. Children from Xcel Martial Arts showed off their skills to a soundtrack that ranged from rock ‘n’ roll to hip-hop.
Along the outskirts of Franklin Park, guests could watch a Takraw tournament.
Takraw, nicknamed “kick volleyball,” allows players to use only their feet, knees, chest and head to send the “rattan ball” speeding over the net. The Takraw athletes displayed flexibility that rivaled that of a Radio City Rockette.
Mixed in with tents from the restaurants Flavors of India and Taste of Bali were stands offering “Maui Wowi” smoothies, chicken on a stick and butter pecan ice cream.
Inside the Adventure Center were booths offering workshops, presentations and demonstrations. The booth from Thailand showed guests “The Utilization of Banana Leaves” and a booth from India was dedicated to the history and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi.
Japan’s booth gave kids and adults alike the chance to make Kirigami paper animals.
Kirigami, the Japanese art of paper cutting, is prominently displayed every holiday season in the U.S. as paper snowflakes line the walls of most kindergarten classrooms.
The sound of drums rang throughout the park accompanied by a Chinese Dragon Dance that made its way through the crowded sidewalks.
The festival’s goal is to promote Asian culture by showcasing Asian fine arts as well as provide educational programs, resources and services, according to the festival’s website.
