By David Russell
Australians have be ducking off for quick Asian getaways for decades, but getting ‘centred’ has never been as easy as this! Adelaide’s Rymill Park will be transformed into a mini Asia from tonight for AsiaFest 2015, where visitors will be able to choose between a trip to Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand or Korea, or make it a whirlwind continental tour and visit them all.
Events will include a banh mi eating competition, full moon party, K-pop and performances from Ladyboy Superstars.
Director Greg Evangelou said AsiaFest will be a pathway to five culturally diverse Asian origins and a celebration of South Australia’s Asian communities. “The featured countries will showcase their different cultures and unique traditions… patrons can fully immerse themselves and feel as though they are really there,” he said.
One of the highlights of last year’s festival, the Melting Pot Markets, is returning to replicate the ambiance of Hong Kong’s crowded street market scene.
“This year’s Melting Pot will take people to the backstreets of Hong Kong – into traditional Oriental markets selling anything and everything,” said Greg.
“We encourage everyone to bring their best bartering skills for a fun, authentic and entertaining experience.”
One of the stalls in the Melting Pot will be Uncle Wang’s Asian Grocery and Bar. Uncle Wang’s will be serving traditional Chinese BBQ with Roast Duck as its signature dish.
“Uncle Wang’s is here for a good time, not a long time… The bar will be open all ten nights until late with DJs and live entertainment,” said Greg.
To find out what’s happening at each AsiaFest ‘country’ head to asiafest.com.au