With more than 26 Asian nationalities represented in the greater Dallas area, Asian culture is an integral part of Dallas' business and identity.
Crow Museum of Asian Art of The University of Texas at Dallas
Take in a moment of quiet reflection as you explore the Crow Collection of Asian Art, located in the heart of the Dallas Arts District. The free museum features a diverse array of historical and contemporary works of art from Japan, China, India and Southeast Asia, with some artifacts, jewelry pieces and statues dating back to 3500 B.C. The peaceful outdoor garden, covering an entire city block, features 15 sculptures, including a Japanese bell and an 18-foot Chinese character that translates to mean Buddha.
Thai Culture and Food Festival
Enjoy the culture of Thailand through food and dance at the Thai Culture and Food Festival. The two-day, free event at The Buddist Center of Dallas (north of Downtown) takes place in the spring and kicks off with an opening parade, followed by cultural performances, including traditional Thai classical dances, and guided tours through the Buddist temple at the center. Be sure to try all the tasty Thai food from local restaurants - don't miss vegan papaya salad and chicken satay.
International Museum of Cultures
Take the family for a visit to the International Museum of Cultures, just 25 minutes south of Downtown Dallas. The only museum of its kind in Texas, it focuses on exploring the cultures and people from communities around the world, including those of Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea. Stop by The Drums of the World exhibit to hear the sounds of the instrument as it's traditionally played throughout the world.
DFW Chinatown
Take a stroll through DFW Chinatown - a hub of trade, commerce and culture for Dallas' Asian community located north of Dallas in Richardson. With large statues that greet you upon arrival and a center filled with specialty restaurants and shopping, this area is a must-see. Stop for a plate of hearty dumplings at Jeng Chi Dumpling House or braised duck wonton noodle soup at Canton before indulging in shaved ice desserts from May's Ice Cream.
Dallas Asian Trade Market
This expansive shopping mecca north of Dallas includes more than 20 individual shopping centers, each with their own unique line up of restaurants and shops, including Daiso, a Japanese retailer, and Dan Sung Sa Korean Bar, a dive bar and restaurant. The area is a popular destination for the weekend thanks to mega stores like Sam Moon, a bustling accessories store that is well known for its vast collection of jewelry, handbags and gifts. The area is also well known for its luxurious spas, including locals' favorites King Spa & Sauna and Spa Castle, as well as H-Mart, a mega store that includes several fashion and retail outposts as well as an expansive super market focused on traditional Asian foods.
Fall in love with cinema in a new way! Now in its third year, the DFW South Asian Film Festival promotes the perspectives and voices of the South Asian community through film. The three-day event, held late winter/early spring each year, takes place at various locations throughout Dallas; past locations have included the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Angelika Theater in Plano.
