Asian Arts Fair 2026

The Everyone an Artist Trust (EAA), a Christchurch-based non-profit arts organisation, proposes the 2026 edition of the extraordinary Asian Arts Festival—an inclusive, multicultural public event celebrating the diversity and vibrancy of Asian art forms. The festival will feature a wide range of cultural performances and activities spanning music, dance, theatre, opera, fashion, workshops, and live art, with both indoor and outdoor activations situated in the central city. Participating communities represent a broad array of Asian cultures, including those from Japan, China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Taiwan, the Philippines, and others. The event is free and family-oriented, with a focus on accessibility, cross-cultural engagement, and the revitalisation of Christchurch’s heritage precinct. Building on the success of the 2025 festival, this iteration aims to deepen public connection to Christchurch’s Asian communities and foster long-term cultural participation. The project aligns with Boost Ōtautahi’s priorities by encouraging creative expression within underserved communities, increasing access to the city’s cultural infrastructure, and engaging new and diverse audiences. 

This event is proudly presented in partnership with The Arts Centre of Christchurch, who are generously supporting us through their expertise in marketing, production, and planning. Their collaboration plays a vital role in helping us reach wider audiences, coordinate event logistics, and ensure a seamless and professional delivery of the festival experience. With their support, we are able to focus on curating meaningful artistic content while benefiting from The Arts Centre’s extensive resources and community connections. 

In addition, we are collaborating with a range of community organizations, professional performing companies, as well as local and international artists and performers, who bring diverse perspectives and talents to the festival.

Funds raised will be used to fairly compensate artists for their creative work and time, ensuring that talented professionals involved in the project are properly supported. Additionally, the funds will cover all technical delivery expenses, including the rental or purchase of necessary equipment like lighting, sound, and staging, as well as the fees for skilled technicians who manage these elements to ensure a smooth and high-quality production. Beyond production, a portion of the budget will be dedicated to community outreach, which includes organizing workshops, educational programs, and promotional efforts to connect with and involve local communities. This outreach not only helps broaden the audience but also fosters meaningful engagement, making the arts accessible and enriching for everyone involved.

A lively day to celebrate the diversity of Asian arts and cultures. Asian Arts Festival is a vibrant arts festival bursting with music, theatre, dance, children fashion show, talk show, visual art exhibition, intangible cultural heritage workshops, standup comedy show, food, an art market, colourful cultural performances and presentations to address the city's cultural inclusiveness and the special contribution made by the wider ethnic communities, especially the Asian communities.

The Asian Arts Fair plays a vital role in celebrating and elevating the rich cultural heritage and contemporary creativity of Asian communities. It is also a great opportunity for the wider public who are interested in Asian culture and arts to be immersed in a festive atmosphere. By showcasing the talents of local and international artists and engaging with diverse audiences, the festival fosters greater cultural understanding and appreciation within the wider community. It provides a platform for underrepresented voices, promotes cross-cultural dialogue, and strengthens community pride.