The 23rd annual Chinatown Street Festival was one of a half-dozen festivals that ran on Aug. 16 in Calgary, but despite the competition for attendees, they managed to pack the streets of Chinatown.

Thousands of festival goers took in the annual parade, cultural activities, food, and shopping from the street vendors.

Chinatown BIA Chair Grace Su said that it had become one of the most anticipated summer events in the city, and also one of the biggest for the BIA.

“This year is extra special because we are showcasing two brand new giant chairs in Sien Lok Park. If you haven’t, sneak to Sien Lok Park and take some great pictures with those two chairs,” she said.

That unveiling and activation, made this year one of the largest in history of Chinatown with geographically spread activations outside of the traditional home of 3 Avenue to more parts of the community.

It also represented the second year that the BIA introduced a major piece of artwork for Chinatown as part of the festival activities.

“I was just remembering that last year when we were here, we were unveiling the Center Street mural. This is really my favorite thing about Chinatown. It is really a place where they bring art, culture, food, community,” said Amanda Chapman, MLA for Calgary-Beddington.

Photos from the Chinatown Street Festival Parade