DRIVE Electric Arizona and Valley of the Sun Electric Vehicle Association were proud to participate in the Asian Festival at Mesa Community College on Sunday, February 1, 2026 — marking our very first time engaging with this vibrant and diverse community celebration.

Under the solar canopies in the south parking lot, our EV information booth and eight-vehicle display created a welcoming space for meaningful conversations about electric transportation. Throughout the day, our volunteer team engaged with more than 800 attendees — answering questions, sharing real-world ownership experiences, and helping demystify what it truly means to drive electric in Arizona.

From first-time EV explorers to families curious about charging, road trips, incentives, and long-term ownership, the conversations were thoughtful, energetic, and inspiring. Events like this remind us that education happens best person-to-person — through authentic stories, honest answers, and the opportunity to see and experience the vehicles up close.

We are incredibly grateful to Salt River Project (SRP) for sponsoring our participation and generously allowing us to utilize their booth space for the Sunday time slot. Their partnership continues to make community-based EV education possible across the region.

As a first-time event for DRIVE Electric Arizona at the Asian Festival, the turnout and engagement exceeded expectations, and we are already looking forward to participating again next year.

Photo credit: Peter Culin