AsiaFest & Turtles at Haggard Park in Plano, TX

On Saturday, we spent some time in Plano, TX. We were there to check out the 10 anniversary of Plano's AsiaFest in Haggard Park, but we also did some shopping and sightseeing in the historical downtown district.

Of course, I spent most of the time watching the Tae Kwon Do demonstrations.

Black belts from Lee's U.S. Tae Kwon Do Academy going through forms in place.

Great front snap kick!
I really need to get back into martial arts classes. I'm missing breaking things...on purpose.

And, I spotted a few turtles enjoying the beautiful, sunny day.

Turtles enjoying the sun and a swim in the pond at Haggard Park in Plano, TX.

I'm guessing these are red-eared sliders from the shape of the carapace.
I couldn't get close enough to clearly see the markings. Can anyone confirm?

If you are in the Dallas area and would like to have one of those rare inner peace moments, I definitely recommend driving over to downtown Plano to watch the ducks and turtles. Bring some "duckie bread" with you for the deluxe package.

There are two other Asian heritage events coming up in the Dallas area. And, the best part is that both events are free and open to the public! On Saturday, May 18th, Asian Festival of Dallas will be taking over the Main Street Garden from 11am to 6pm. There will be cultural performances throughout the day, Asian artwork and products for sale, and authentic cuisine to sample. A week later, on Sunday May 26th, the Annual DFW Dragon Boat Festival will be gracing the Las Colinas Urban Center at Lake Carolyn in Irving, TX. Events are planned from 8:30am to 8pm with a free concert at 5:30pm. This is a great opportunity to see dragon boat racing, Chinese kite flying demonstrations, lantern displays, and cultural performances.

Unfortunately, I'm going to miss the Asian Festival of Dallas because I'll be at the Lone Star Reptile Expo on May 18th & 19th. I do plan on checking out the dragons and lanterns at the Annual DFW Dragon Boat Festival on May 26th. If you have any photograph requests for the Lone Star Reptile Expo or the Annual DFW Dragon Boat Festival, comment below.