The CAAM Heritage Music Project — a new dimension of Chinese cultural expression through the art of sound.
The Chinese American Association of Minnesota (CAAM)—the state’s oldest and one of its most established Chinese community organizations, founded in 1967—is stepping into an exciting new phase.
The long-running Festival of Nations, a Minnesota tradition for nearly 90 years, is returning in 2026 after the pandemic pause, now reimagined and renamed the International Festival of Minnesota (IFest-MN). April 10 & 11
CAAM is building on its well-known strengths in cuisine, dance, and cultural exhibits by officially launching a fresh artistic brand. This expands its presence and impact at the event, where it has been a key participant for four decades.
A 40‑Year Legacy: A Complete Chinese Cultural Experience
As a cornerstone of Minnesota’s multicultural landscape, CAAM has participated in the former Festival of Nations (now renamed International Festival of Minnesota, https://www.ifestmn.org/) for more than four decades. Generations of Minnesotans have connected with Chinese culture through CAAM’s four signature pillars:
The CAAM Heritage Music Project — a new dimension of Chinese cultural expression through the art of sound.
The project will make its highly anticipated debut on April 10–11 at the International Festival of Minnesota (IFest‑MN), held at the Saint Paul RiverCentre.
Taste, Sight, Culture, Marketplace and NOW SOUND!
Debut Highlights: A Fusion of Strings, Bamboo, and Voice
Taste
The beloved Chinese Cafe featuring authentic Chinese cuisine
Sight
Award‑winning performances by the CAAM Chinese Dance Theater
Cultural Learning
Educational cultural demonstrations and exhibitions
Cultural Marketplace
Unique souvenirs and cultural crafts representing Chinese heritage
Sound
This year, CAAM adds a long‑awaited new dimension—sound—with the inaugural launch of the Heritage Music Project, completing a full spectrum of Chinese cultural presentation.
Rooted in Community: A Half‑Century of Education and Service
Beyond cultural programming, CAAM has long been committed to giving back to Minnesota. The annual CAAM–Stanley & Marvel Chong Scholarship supports more than a dozen outstanding Chinese American students each year.
For over 30 years, CAAM volunteers have also upheld a cherished Thanksgiving tradition: serving warm Chinese meals to more than 300 unhoused individuals at the St. Paul Catholic Charity Center. This cross‑cultural act of compassion has become a defining symbol of the Chinese community’s contributions to Minnesota.
During the April 10–11 debut, the CAAM Heritage Music Project will bring together top artists from the Twin Cities. Audiences will experience the expressive sounds of guzheng, yangqin, bamboo flute, hulusi, and hand drum, along with classic Chinese folk and art songs performed by distinguished vocalists.
Message from the CAAM President
“As the oldest Chinese American cultural bridge in Minnesota, CAAM’s mission has always been to let culture flourish through heritage and to strengthen community through care,” said Dr. Ping Wang, President of CAAM. “From founding our Chinese school and dance school, to our Thanksgiving meal program and scholarship awards, and now to the debut of the Heritage Music Project, CAAM has completed a full cultural spectrum—from language and cuisine to craftsmanship, dance, and now music. Through this project, we hope to showcase the love and contributions of the Chinese community to Minnesota in a more comprehensive way.”
Volunteer Call: Join the Chinese Cafe Team at IFest‑MN
To support the operation of the Chinese Cafe during the festival,
CAAM is seeking enthusiastic volunteers from the community.
Please CLICK HERE to register to volunteer at event OR send email to [email protected].