Thai Culture and Food Festival
Celebrate Thai culture through food and dance at the Thai Culture and Food Festival. This free, two-day event takes place in the spring at the Buddhist Center of Dallas (north of downtown) and kicks off with an opening parade, followed by cultural performances including traditional Thai classical dance and guided tours of the center’s Buddhist temple. Be sure to try some delicious Thai food at a local restaurant; don’t miss the vegan papaya salad and chicken satay.
International Cultural Museum
Take the family to the Museum of International Culture, just 25 minutes south of downtown Dallas. The only museum in Texas, it focuses on the cultures and peoples of communities around the world, including Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea. Stop by the “Drums of the World” exhibit to hear the sounds of instruments traditionally played around the world.
DFW Chinatown
Explore DFW Chinatown, the trade, commerce and cultural center of Dallas’ Asian community in Richardson, just north of Dallas. Large statues greet you as you arrive, and the area is packed with specialty shops and shopping centers. Sample hearty dumplings at Jeng Chi Dumpling House and braised duck wonton noodles at Canton before tucking into shaved ice desserts at May’s Ice Cream.
Dallas Asian Trade Market
This sprawling shopping mecca in north Dallas is home to more than 20 shopping centers, each with its own unique restaurants and shops, including Japanese retailer Daiso and izakaya/restaurant Dang Songsa Korean Bar. The area is a popular weekend destination thanks to big-box stores like Sam Moon, a bustling accessories shop known for its extensive collection of jewelry, handbags, and gifts. The area is also known for its luxury spas, including King Spa & Sauna and Spa Castle, both popular with locals. There’s also H Mart, a big-box store with several fashion and retail outlets, and a large supermarket with an emphasis on traditional Asian cuisine.
