Part 2: Exploring AAPI Culture Fest’s lineup of local organizations and businesses
Updated May 16, 2025 | Published May 14, 2025
Photo by Colin Lloyd on Unsplash
This is part two of a two-part spotlight on the upcoming AAPI Culture Festival. Part 1 shares general event information and a little about the festival’s background.
Note: Information will get added to this directory entry until the day of the event to ensure every organization listed on the event’s site gets covered. Thank you for your understanding.
On May 16, The AAPI Culture Festival will bring together a lineup of local organizations, groups and businesses in celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
This non-comprehensive directory builds on the sponsor and festival lineup lists, which are on Civic Center Park’s website, helping potential attendees learn more about the people making the event happen. It is also a resource for those looking to discover and support more local businesses and organizations.
Festival Sponsors
The Colorado Health Foundation supports the state’s collective health by working with statewide organizations to eliminate inequities. According to their website, they focus on finding solutions that promote equity and racial justice for Coloradans.
The philanthropic organization awards grants and other forms of funding to nonprofits. They also host health symposiums and have one coming up at the end of July with the theme “Fortifying the Movement in Volatile Times.”
More information on how to attend can be found on the event’s dedicated webpage.
According to their website, the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation is a “private arts funder” that fosters leaders in local creative endeavors. They also provide fellowships and grant opportunities to local arts institutions looking to contribute to Denver’s art scene.
Their office location in the Arts District on Santa Fe Drive has art displayed throughout it, including a gallery that features all Denver artists. Community organizations can contact them to book one of their event spaces.
Colorado Access works to make sure statewide communities are supported through accessible healthcare; according to their website, they strive to create opportunities for “quality, equitable, and affordable care.”
Members of this “local nonprofit health plan” get access to resources, benefits and services related to several areas of health. More information on how to obtain membership and what it provides can be found on the organization’s website.
Denver Botanic Gardens seeks to “connect people with plants” by showcasing species from the Rocky Mountains and beyond.
According to their website, Denver Botanic Gardens has art exhibitions, educational programs and year-round events. Their calendar features a Summer Concert Series, photography classes, yoga sessions and more.
Community research programs also play a role in the Gardens, pairing their professional research with community support.
More information on what the Gardens have to offer can be found on their website.
The Agency for Denver Human Rights & Community Partnerships strives to make the city an inclusive and equity-prioritizing place; according to their City of Denver webpage, they work to protect human rights through unwavering advocacy, strong partnerships, and direct services, amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities.”
The organization provides programming on anti-discrimination, supports energy-focused efforts and helps nonprofits with the potential to positively impact Denver strengthen their contributions. They also offer opportunities to secure funding for projects that address “local challenges” on a governmental and community level.
More information on the Agency for Denver Human Rights & Community Partnership’s work is available on their webpage.
The Denver Asian American Pacific Islander Commission acts as a voice for Denver’s AAPI community; they connect the community with “strong partnerships” and “direct services” through their work with the Agency for Denver Human Rights & Community Partnerships and the city mayor’s office.
Taemy Kim-Mander, AAPI Culture Fest’s community hubs committee chair, is also a commission co-chair.
More information on the commission can be found on the City of Denver’s webpage, and more on their work can be found on their Facebook page.
Regional Transport District Denver provides communities with public transportation; according to their website, they offer “bus, rail, shuttles, ADA paratransit services, demand responsive services like FlexRide, special event services, vanpools, and many more.” They strive to create connections and serve as valuable mobility leaders.
More information about their work and services can be found on the RTD Denver website.
Comcast is known for offering Wi-Fi, mobile services and cable TV, but their Colorado locations make community contributions that involve partnering with statewide organizations. According to the Comcast Colorado website, they have worked on projects ranging from donating laptops to young adults with Telemundo Colorado to opening a Connection Center with the YMCA.
More information about Comcast in Colorado and their community efforts can be found on their website.
The Asian Chamber of Commerce collaborates with development offices at all levels, serving as their partner and forming partnerships with national AAPI and Native Hawaiian groups.
According to their website, the ACC offers support to professional resource and affinity groups, and they offer “culturally relevant training.” They prioritize diversity, equitable employment opportunities and connection in their work. They also strive to help the AAPI community in Colorado flourish through positivity-focused collaboration, awareness and education.
Those interested can visit their website to access their business resources, view their event calendar and learn more about becoming a member.
The Colorado Trust encourages the advancement of health equity by providing funding and support. They focus on organizations working to make a difference by promoting systemic change” and through “direct services, public education and policy advocacy.” According to their website, The Colorado Trust prioritizes local solutions to inequity issues and consults with the community in their grantmaking efforts.
More information about The Colorado Trust’s work can be found on their website.
According to the ACC’s webpage, the Asian Roundtable of Colorado is a nonprofit that “empowers Colorado Asian and Pacific Islander communities by providing a forum to discuss and act upon issues of mutual concern.”
They also work to preserve AAPI heritage and fight against hate toward AAPI communities.
The Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office San Francisco works to establish and maintain economic ties between Hong Kong and 19 states, which is often achieved by spreading awareness of their benefits.
More information on their work and impact can be found on their website.
Headquartered in Lakewood, FirstBank describes itself as one of the “largest and best performing privately held banks in the United States.”
The Glutamate Association consists of makers and consumers of glutamic acid, found in monosodium glutamate. According to their website, the association works with experts and scientists to educate its members and the community on the healthy usage of glutamate, MSG and umami flavoring in cuisine.
More information on their roles can be found on their website.
Janus Henderson Investors works to help companies get positive financial results from investments and financial solutions.
Performers and DJs
The Denver Police Lion Dance Team will perform a traditional lion dance at the festival. According to Peter Khem for KPBS, who is the team leader and coordinator for the San Diego Legendary Lion Dance Association, the dance is done to rid of bad luck and evil spirits while inviting good luck and fortune; he described it as a form of Chinese martial arts.
More about what this dance often looks like can be found through the link below.
Some of the Hmong Dance Academy’s teams will perform at the festival and teach some dance steps at one of the booths. They work under the Hmong American Association of Colorado, a nonprofit that seeks to strengthen Colorado’s Hmong communities.
According to the Hmong American Center, the Hmong are an ethnic group that originated in southern China with their own language and culture. More information on their history and culture in modern times is available on the Hmong American Center’s website.
Gamelan Tunas Mekar is a Denver-based community that performs some of the traditional and modern music found in Bali, Indonesia. They perform concerts, do private events for organizations and appear at other arranged events across communities.
Spirit of Cambodia Cultural Alliance, a Denver-based nonprofit, empowers Cambodian communities and promotes culture through the humanities. Their dance troupe will perform at the festival; the group strives to preserve Cambodian culture and boost the self-esteem and academic efforts of its performers through public performances.
Lei Hulu will also be performing at this event.
Shoalin Hung Mei Kung Fu Association is a nonprofit that teaches “a comprehensive system of traditional martial practices” meant to help their students grow in several aspects of their lives, from defense to spirituality.
According to their website, Global Village Academy Collaborative is a system of charter schools that prioritizes language immersion, teaching half of each school day in a second language the students select individually. Middle school students from the north campus will “be sharing their talents” at the festival.
Konnectpop is a community for local K-pop fans, hosting events that promote connection. According to their Instagram page, several dancers and members of Colorado K-pop dance groups will take the stage for their performance time slot.
Tafoala Siva Afi is a group of performers who bring traditional Samoan fire knife dance to places across the state and beyond. The group documents their work and highlights community contributions on their Instagram page.
According to an article from Old Lāhainā Lūʻau, Siva Afi, which translates to “fire knife,” was a war dance and demonstration of battle abilities; now, it is more acrobatic and features performers twirling flaming metal knives.
Two DJs, DJ Sugar Auntie and DJ Painted Blossom, will play music throughout the night.
Retail Vendors
Bannock Street and South Lawn Vendors:
Cloud People Creations sells “wearable art” pieces, especially earrings. They sell items like coffin jewelry boxes, custom spider jewelry pieces and beaded earrings for Pride.
Located in Lafayette, Day Day Up Tea is a Chinese Tea House offering imported teas to order and selling traditional teas, boba and authentic cuisine in-store.
Dandelion Studio will be a vendor at the festival.
Eatndexplore will be at the Pakistani Pavilion community hub during the festival offering a taste of Pakistani cuisine. Eatndexplore is a personal food-focused blog, and this name can often be found within marketplaces across Colorado attached to Pakistani food items.
Frost Bite Bakery Ltd, a Denver-based bakery, creates mini desserts with a range of customization options.
Denver-based and Asian-inspired In The Friend Group sells body care products and jewelry. Their inventory includes chunky bracelets, face masks, bath pearls and more.
Jerps Jerky sells jerky in a variety of flavors. They have everything from spicy chips to a line of flavored brisket chips.
Jini Kimchis, based in Littleton, is printmaker Jini Kim Veenker’s business. Her shop features stickers and nature-focused prints.
Kahealani Lee Designs sells Hawaiian-inspired accessories with “culturally significant prints” and designs. They sell a variety of bags, jewelry, bookmarks and more.
Knots of Kindness sells handmade crochet products and donates some of their earnings to mental health-focused nonprofits. They sell a variety of accessories, stuffed animals and clothing adorned with stitches.
KREAM Kimchi sells several types of kimchi, including vegan options, and additional authentic foods. They also sell brand merchandise and host kimchi-making classes with lunch provided.
Lazy Carrot Arts will be one of the festival’s retail vendors.
Lola Severina is a socially conscious business with a focus on self-care. They sell soaps, body products, accessories and more.
Lotus 3 Studios sells home décor and scent-centric products; they primarily offer candles, with a few sprays and car fresheners in the mix.
May Contain Nuts is a candy company specializing in “irresistible brittle products.” They offer a line of brittle bars and pieces in a variety of flavors.
Performance group MeleOli, in collaboration with snack brand Alacreations, will have a “Polynesian Pop-Up” at the festival.
Meowshroom Studio is a Denver-based Chinese art supply brand that also sells artwork on gift-friendly products. In addition to their supply offerings, the business offers private workshops, one-on-one lessons and corporate event options.
Miramiraluv will be present at AAPI Culture Fest.
Momo Khan will be at the Pakistani Pavilion community hub during the festival.
Miranda Vang will sell her handmade jewelry at the festival. The Broomfield-based creator’s Instagram page features an inventory primarily made up of handcrafted earrings.
Reborn Pretty is a Lakewood-based nail salon specializing in gel manicures and nail extensions.
Sweet Rice Flour is an Aurora-based online bakery that specializes in gluten-free goods and lightly sweet offerings. Their menu features a selection of choux puffs, crepe cakes and Southeast Asian desserts like mochi and taro coconut pudding.
The Pottery Bunker features handmade pottery from Lisa Arp and offers lessons. Customers can also request custom pet pottery and other commissions from Arp.
Urtica Candles sells self-care products and soy candles “infused with therapeutic herbs and essential oils” sustainably. Their products were designed to “support meditation, manifestation and mindfulness.
U House LLC will be present at the AAPI Culture Fest.
Central Promenade Vendors:
Ambrosia Harvest produces sustainable and health-benefitting tincture blends made from mushroom extracts.
Anastasia Bliss Pottery is where customers can buy functional stoneware clay pieces. Bliss also teaches adult pottery classes at Main Street Gallery.
BeijosBrasil sells jewelry items made from golden grass that is hand-woven by Brazilian makers.
Denver-based Colorado Cocoa Pod specializes in “Asian inspired bonbons” and other chocolate candies, many of which feature brightly colored visuals. They sell online and at local markets only.
Elsas Designs offers a selection of jewelry pieces, including bracelets, necklaces, earrings and more.
Enlaces sells permanent jewelry ranging from rings to necklaces to anklets.
GlamTouch sells sets of press-on nails and is based in Denver. Their website features several themed collections to explore, sorted by shape and occasion.
Jay’s C.R.A.P. Shack offers small accessories, many of which are Denver-focused. The business also sells 3D-printed functional and decorative plants. Their inventory includes Colorado Avalanche and Denver Nuggets pins, monstera plant coasters and more.
Kindred Roots Collection is a Centennial-based business focused on selling concrete planters, trinket dishes and trays made by hand.
NELLY BERNAL HOUSE OF FASHION features Bernal’s designs on full lines of clothing and accessories. Bernal sells sunglasses, handbags, menswear, shoes and more.
OkkiDokki makes handmade merchandise for anime and popular animated series. The shop is stocked with everything from wood art pieces to hoodies to thermoses.
WKND Bake is a Denver-based bakery that is currently offering cinnamon rolls, flavored sweet rolls and other baked goods.
XLUSIV LLC is a Denver-based business that sells artwork, apparel and accessories. Their inventory ranges from custom rings to fedoras to brightly colored poster prints in several sizes.
All Pro Realty, Inc. of Denver, a real estate agency, will be at the AAPI Culture Fest. Their office is located at 11 Federal Blvd, and those interested can contact them through the link below.
Food and Drink Vendors
Bannock Street and South Lawn Vendors:
Asian Kolache Shop will be one of the event’s food and beverage vendors.
Cachai Chilean food is a local food truck, and their Instagram page features photos of sandwiches, chorrillana and more.
Fritay Haitian Cuisine is a food truck that specializes in authentic Haitian dishes. According to their website, their menu features items like a creole chicken sandwich, fried sweet plantains, marinad and more.
Kine Juicery is an Aurora-based business serving wellness shots and cold-pressed juices. Their menu for the festival can be viewed on their Instagram page; it features items like Paradise Punch Juice, a Super Lemon Haze Shot and more.
According to Visit Colorado Springs, Momo Sushi On The Go is a food truck serving sushi and other Japanese cuisine. Their Instagram notes sushi, dumplings, salads and noodle dishes as being part of their menu.
KOCO STREET FOOD sells a range of Korean dishes; their menu includes items like Beef Bulgogi, egg rolls and kimchi.
Based in Castle Rock, Philly on the go is a family restaurant, describing themselves in their Facebook bio as having “the best cheesesteaks in Castle Rock!” Their menu features several cheesesteak options to choose from and compatible side dishes.
Based in Denver, Pint’s Peak Ice Cream makes artisan ice cream in small batches with local ingredients. Their offerings, which rotate regularly, can be purchased via their food truck or picked up at their commissary kitchen.
Radical Sasquatch Dumpling Company serves dumplings with international flavors and inspirations from their food truck. They sell options ranging from pierogis to gyoza.
Tao Boba specializes in Taiwanese drinks, like boba and milk tea. They also carry other café options and offer a variety of menu items that suit their customers’ dietary needs.
Central Promenade Vendors:
Adriannas Sunny Sips sells “gourmet lemonades” at pop-up events and will be at AAPI Culture Fest.
Baon Supper Club, based in Colorado Springs, serves Filipino food. According to their website, they offer a private chef and immersive dining experience, group cooking classes and pop-up dinners with a featured menu.
Bryan’s Dumpling House offers a range of dumpling options, including dim sum, jiao zi and xiao long bao. They also serve noodle dishes, wok meals and more.
Everbowl’s menu features smoothies, bowls, ice cream sandwiches and more. They operate under the philosophy that movement and nourishing food are keys to happiness.
Flavor Of Tabasco is a food truck that serves Mexican dishes; the family-owned business serves tacos with a variety of fillings, quesadillas and more.
The long-standing restaurant Geisha Japanese Cuisine will be one of the festival’s food vendors.
Magna Kainan is a Denver-based Filipino eatery serving brunch, dinner and drinks. Their menus include ube mochi pancakes, lumpia, fried rice and more.
Momo Sushi On The Go will also be serving food in this section of the festival.
Neveria La Unica is an ice cream shop that also offers Mexican snacks. They serve quesadillas, flan, elotes and more.
Now Pho sells authentic Vietnamese food; according to their website, some of their popular menu items include spring rolls, noodle dishes and crab cheese wontons.
Paborito is a Denver-based Filipino restaurant offering items like crispy fried chicken and rice, chicken wings adobo with rice, lumpia shorties and more.
Based out of Wheatridge, Roll It Up Sushi Truck offers a lineup of rolls, sushi bowl options and Gyoza.
Sweet Action offers small batch ice creams, ice pops and other frozen and baked desserts. According to their website, they offer a few gluten-free options, and they use local ingredients and wind-powered churning to make their products.
Tum Yumz sells “Southeast Asian street food” items; their menu includes papaya salad, Spicy Lao Sausage and more.
Located in Denver, Uptown & Humboldt serves a “travel-inspired” menu via food truck and brick-and-mortar eatery locations. According to their website, the restaurant primarily pulls culinary inspiration from Berlin, Greece, Spain and Puerto Rico.
WeChef Kitchen is a Denver-based restaurant with a food truck that specializes in Asian fusion cuisine. Their menu includes items like wontons, a Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich and more.
Nonprofit and Marketing Booths
Bannock Street and South Lawn Booths:
Amihan Artisans, a group established “to support artisans and poverty eradication efforts in the Philippines,” and Gawad Kalinga USA, an organization that is also focused on eliminating poverty in the Philippines, will be attending the festival.
Autism Society of Colorado works to help people with Autism find community resources and make connections. They offer support groups and host community gatherings every week, and they provide programming that educates businesses and offers social support to those with Autism.
The Denver Commission for People with Disabilities works with community members and local government officials to support people with disabilities, empower them through advocacy and education and spark change.
In addition to their performance slot, Global Village Charter Collaborative will run a booth at AAPI Culture Fest.
Halau Kalama brings Kalama Polynesian dance to events across the state, with a dance school located in Aurora. According to their website, the school offers classes in Tahitian Dance, Tahitian Drumming, Samoan Fire Knife Spinning and Hula for all ages.
The goal of PABNEEG’s work is to “construct a thriving Hmong and BIPOC community in Colorado,” according to their Instagram bio. They host educational events meant to empower and focused on topics like helping Hmong women obtain mental health equity.
Central Promenade Booths:
The 988 Colorado Mental Health Line connects those in need of support with trained professionals. According to their website, every conversation is confidential and private. More information on what to expect and a list of resources are available on the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line’s website.
In addition to being an event sponsor, the Asian Chamber of Commerce Colorado will also have a booth at the festival.
Convivir Colorado was created to help immigrant and refugee families access resources that eliminate xenophobia. They primarily work with students to build self-advocacy skills and confidence in and out of school.
More about Convivir Colorado’s work can be found on their website.
Denver Human Services is a government agency that provides Denverites with access to resources and offers support. According to their website, they can assist Denver residents with finances, housing needs, child support and more.
More information about the work Denver Human Services does can be viewed on their website.
Community Hubs and Presenters
Chinatown- Organization of Chinese Americans Colorado
Filipino Barrio
Hawaiian Hale- Pi’ilani Hawaiian Civic Club
Hmong Village- Hmong American Association of Colorado
Kampoeng Indonesia
Japan Square
Korea Town- Aurora Sister Cities International
Discover Nepal- Colorado Nepalese Community
Pakistan Pavilion- The Pakistani American Community of Colorado
Little Saigon
Additional Information
A pop-up art auction and exhibition will take place during the event, which the Civic Center noted via Reddit will feature work from 25 artists. Many of these artists received shoutouts on AAPI Culture Fest’s Instagram page for those who would like to check them out.
