The 9th Asian Food & Tennis Festival now has extended hours, festival co-founder George Duangmanee said, adding, “We’re expecting more crowds.”

The festival yearly draws thousands, attracted to the weekend celebration of Asian cuisine, all-day cultural shows and games. “We’re inviting the public,” he added. “Bring your families and friends.”

The festival, a free admission event, takes place on July 21 to 22. Venue is the George Mason University (Main Campus), located on 4352 Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax VA 22030.

On July 21, Saturday, the hours are from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday festivities used to end earlier. This year, the hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“The festival aims to promote greater understanding of Asian countries and cultures,” Duangmanee said.

The festival is popular not just with Asian Americans. It has become a magnet for Mainstream America. The public is drawn to the delicious Asian cuisine. Many families do their early Christmas shopping at the product booths with the exquisite handicrafts.

Another main attraction: “Destination Asia,” where Asian embassies and organizations exhibit their cultures, arts and crafts and hold cooking demonstrations.

The festival also features an all-day prized money tennis tournament, performances, contests, interactive demonstrations, and children interactive area. The Thai Tennis Organization in America (TTOA) will again partner with Singha Beer and the United States Tennis Association Virginia at this year’s festival.

For more information, please contact George Duangmanee at info@asianfestivaldc.com or Bing C. Branigin at bing@asianfestivaldc.com.