Call for Artists, Performers, Vendors: Asian American Arts Festival (Chicago)

Asian American Arts Chicago AAAC invites AAPINH Asian American, Pacific Islander, Native Hawaiian vendors and artists of all disciplines to apply for EVOLUTION: Asian American Arts Festival, a two-day celebration of transformation and creativity in Chicago.

Taking place May 2–3, 2026 at Lookingglass Theatre, 821 N Michigan Ave, the festival features over 30 events including live performances, panel discussions, film, music, theatre, family programs, a vibrant craft market, tattoo artists, and more.

This call is open to anyone who identifies as AAPINH in the Chicago area.

Application closes midnight, December 31, 2025. If selected for the next round, you’ll be notified in January, 2026 with next steps to provide details. Visit AAAC.art for festival updates.

Requirements

Vendors:

• Vendors fees are $150 for two days. Vendors must commit to selling for at least 6-hours a day for two days, and provide appropriate permits and licenses.
• Including food vendors, craft and jewelry designers, clothing brands, caricature artists, tattoo artists, book sellers, ceramic artists, and more.
• Please note that beverages will be sold exclusively through the Lookingglass Theatre bar, but we accept non-alcoholic drink donations that will be offered by donation to AAAC.

Artists and Performers:

• Including poetry and spoken word, live music, acting, dance, drag, storytelling, fashion, magic, film, and more.
• Artists receive a stipend for their participation.

Application Instructions

Vendor Application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6grZkzDLBegRuiRMlT8ODaeTEfUeBABRkGReYLGK9X_mngA/viewform

Artists and Performers Application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdRHXjL8Il4QPyScYw9zbZLN_LgnNf6eLGfcw7vgS51nBRpOA/viewform