Before stepping foot in Ben Thanh Plaza on Saturday, sounds of an Asian melody and an enchanted crowd wafted out into the parking lot. Hundreds of people from various backgrounds tasted the treats of Asia and watched Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese, Hawaiian and Cambodian dance and musical performances.
After three years of renovations to the shopping center in East Arlington, plaza manager David Dang wanted to bring the Tarrant County Asian American Chamber of Commerce 's 21st Eggroll Festival to his newest location.
The free annual event aims to raise awareness of community resources, promote Asian American businesses and provide free healthcare services like vaccinations, dental exams and diabetes testing from the Colorful World Foundation, an area nonprofit with a branch in Arlington, and other healthcare professionals.
Besides testing his renovated supermarket and food court before the grand opening in several weeks, Dang wanted to give back to the community and teach children in the next generation about the various Asian cultures.
'I want my kids to understand the value of freedom, the value of life, and the value of education, 'Dang, who moved here from Vietnam, said. 'Culture is important for my kids and grandkids to learn about, even if they speak fluent English. '
Community leaders from around Tarrant County came together for the event to show support and educate the public, including Arlington and Pantego mayors; Texas State Representative Chris Turner; the City 's police, fire and library departments; Arlington ISD Superintendent Dr. Cavazos; representatives from Garland 's Community Multicultural Commission and more.
The festival consisted of three parts this year: the cultural performances and health fair, a traditional Vietnamese lantern parade called the Moon Festival, and live music.
Tarrant County Asian American Chamber of Commerce
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