The PHS community celebrated the 18th annual Asian Fest on March 21, with performances to showcase the diversity of Asian culture. Featured events included Chinese yo-yo, a rendition of the story of Diwali, and cultural dances. PHS Mandarin teacher Shwu-Fen Lin and students from several of PHS’s language programs and cultural clubs organized the event. Asian Fest, the result of months of collaboration and preperation, held unique significance for each of the student performers.

Jessica Zhang ’26 performed in both C-pop (Chinese pop) and K-pop (Korean pop) dance routines. For Zhang, Asian Fest was an opportunity to discover how different cultures express themselves through the arts.

“I think music is one of the major art styles that can best express a certain culture because instruments, music, [and] lyrics contain deep meanings [about each] country’s history, [and] how they evolved into the people they are,” said Zhang.

Lisa Jin ’25, a performer for the Japanese Club, emphasized that Asian Fest was a way to challenge stereotypes about the Asian identity. In covering performances from anime and K-pop, PHS students showcased the cultural impact of all Asian traditions, encouraging a wider understanding and appreciation for their culture.

“We wanted to highlight how vibrant and creative the community is,” said Jin. “I know some people feel a bias [against] people who watch anime [and] the anime culture[in general]. After seeing our performance and dancing, I want to show [people] that we can actually do something that can be shown in public.”

While these performances were a celebration of Asian culture for the entire PHS community, they also provided an opportunity for Asian student performers to connect to their own roots.

“I’m Korean, and so my Korean culture has always been very important to me, especially in America,” said Kyuyoung Chung ’26, a performer for the Asian American Club and Korean Cover Group Club. “In Princeton, the Korean community isn’t very large, so it’s nice [to] have this club to be able to share that piece of that culture.”

In addition to the performances, student-led clubs set up cultural stations across the gym, offering food, lessons, and traditional activities. Those who attended could practice calligraphy, create origami, experiment with musical instruments, and participate in traditional games to connect further with Asian cultures.

“I think one of the most important things about Asian Fest is exploring, especially since we have so many different stations, food stalls, [and] game stations,” said Zey Oral ’25, a performer for the Korean Club. “You can explore [the] different aspects of other people’s culture.”

To prepare, students spent hours at rehearsal, developing activities, and designing posters. The theme for Asian Fest is chosen in November, followed by a poster competition open to all artists at PHS. Mandarin teacher Shwu-Fen Lin expressed thanks for all those involved in the event.

“I really appreciate the students who dedicated their time to this program. Throughout the 18 years [of Asian Fest], I’m just very surprised. Our students have so many talents. They did really wonderful,” said Lin.