2026 Samoan Heritage Festival
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Cost: Free family event, no admission required
Location: Foisia Park
23410 Catskill Avenue
Carson, CA 90745
Contact: City of Carson, Recreation Division
Phone: (310) 847-3570
Email: samoanheritagefestival@gmail.com
Instagram: @SamoanHeritageFestival
About the Samoan Heritage Festival
Every summer, the City of Carson hosts one of Southern California’s most beloved Polynesian celebrations: the Samoan Heritage Festival. Now in its third decade, this free community event honors the deep roots of Samoan culture in the South Bay, a region that is home to one of the largest Samoan populations anywhere in the United States.
Held at Foisia Park in Carson, the festival brings together families, community members, and visitors for a full day of traditional Samoan music, dance, food, and cultural education. Whether you’re Samoan, Pacific Islander, or simply curious about one of the world’s most vibrant cultures, this is a welcoming, all-ages event worth attending.
What to Expect at the Festival
Samoan Performing Arts: The heart of the festival is its live performances. Expect traditional siva Samoa (Samoan dance), fire knife dancing (ailao afi), and music featuring guitar, ukulele, and voices raised in harmony. Local dance groups, church groups, and cultural organizations from across the South Bay take the stage throughout the day.
Traditional Samoan Food: This is a food lover’s event. Vendors serve traditional dishes including palusami (coconut cream baked in taro leaves), oka (Samoan-style raw fish), sapasui (Samoan chop suey), and freshly grilled meats alongside shave ice and tropical drinks. Come hungry.
Cultural Booths and Crafts: Browse handmade goods, traditional ie toga (fine mats), jewelry, and crafts from Samoan artisans and vendors from across Southern California.
Community and Connection: The Samoan Heritage Festival is deeply community-centered. It’s a reunion for many families and a first introduction for others. Organized by the City of Carson’s Recreation Division, the event reflects the city’s proud history as a hub of Pacific Islander life in California.
Getting to Foisia Park in Carson
Foisia Park is located at 23410 Catskill Avenue, Carson, CA 90745, just off the 405 Freeway in the heart of the South Bay. Carson is easily accessible from Long Beach, Torrance, Compton, Gardena, and the greater Los Angeles area. Street parking is available around the park, and the event is free to attend with no tickets or reservations needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Samoan Heritage Festival free?
Yes, it’s completely free to attend! No tickets or registration required. Food and vendor purchases are at your own cost.
Where is the 2026 festival?
Foisia Park, 23410 Catskill Avenue, Carson, CA 90745.
What time does it start?
The festival runs from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday, June 27, 2026.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, this is an all-ages family event with performances, traditional food, and cultural activities for kids and adults.
Is there parking?
Street parking is available around Foisia Park. Arrive early — this event draws a large, enthusiastic crowd.
Who can I contact for more information?
City of Carson Recreation Division: (310) 847-3570 or samoanheritagefestival@gmail.com.
More Pacific Islander Festivals in Southern California
Looking for more ways to celebrate Pacific Islander culture in California? Heleloa.com is your guide to Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander events, businesses, and community organizations across Southern California.
- Pacific Islander Festival at Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach, CA (first weekend of June)
- Browse all Pacific Islander Festivals in Southern California
Follow Heleloa on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on Pacific Islander events in California throughout the year.