On June 13, the 2026 Boston International Asian Music Festival brought together performers, community leaders, elected officials, and residents from across Massachusetts for a vibrant celebration of Asian cultures through contemporary and tradition music, dance, and other cultural arts. Held at NARA Park in Acton, the festival highlighted the power of music to connect communities and foster cross-cultural understanding.
The event was co-founded by Yalan Peng and Hongxia Hu, whose vision has helped grow the Boston International Asian Music Festival into a prominent platform for cultural exchange and community engagement throughout the Greater Boston region.
The festival welcomed numerous distinguished guests and public officials. Opening remarks were delivered by Kaiping Fu, President of the Acton Chinese American Civic Society, who emphasized the importance of cultural inclusion, community service, and preserving cultural heritage.
Massachusetts State Representative Simon Cataldo praised the contributions of Asian American communities to the commonwealth and commended the organizers and volunteers for creating a meaningful event that celebrates diversity and unity.
Representing the Town of Acton, Select Board Chair Alissa Nicol and Vice Chair David Martin offered congratulations to the organizers and participants, expressing pride in Acton’s commitment to building a welcoming community where residents from all backgrounds can share their traditions and strengthen mutual understanding.
Recent AB graduate Juliet Dong introduced Massachusetts State Senator Jamie Eldridge. Senator Eldridge recognized the cultural and educational value of community events such as the Boston International Asian Music Festival and expressed appreciation for the contributions of Asian American residents to the social and economic vitality of the region.
Also attending the event was Glen Cote of the Acton-Boxborough School Committee, who acknowledged the important role that arts and cultural programs play in enriching students’ educational experiences and promoting global awareness, as well as expressing his appreciation and amazement for all the talented performers.
Performers of all ages created an atmosphere of celebration, learning, and cultural pride. Dancers Hailey Zhao and Ella Liu expressed their excitement to be performing and showcasing their Chinese culture, as well as observing and appreciating other performances and cultures.
As the event concluded, organizers expressed gratitude to the performers, volunteers, sponsors, public officials, and community members whose support made the festival possible. They reaffirmed the festival’s mission of promoting cultural exchange, fostering friendship among diverse communities, and inspiring future generations through the universal language of music.
Meghan Li, Vice President of the Jasmine Cultural Arts Foundation, is a rising junior at Acton-Boxborough Regional High School and has been a dancer with Angel Dance Company for 10 years.
