The 2025 Party at the People’s House: Summer Festival From Our POV
Written by Leila Miranda | July 10, 2025
photos by James Russell & Leila Miranda
On Saturday, June 28th, in downtown Austin, Austin City Hall hosted “Party at the People’s House”—a lively event that has been uniting neighbors, friends, and families for more than ten years as a day of celebration, inclusion, and connection.
The City of Austin presented “Party at the People’s House” as a family-friendly event that has been contributing to the Austin community for over a decade. The day included live music, performances, art activities, and more! This celebration is part of Austin's "We All Belong" campaign, a citywide anti-hate initiative that launched in 2023. “We All Belong” promotes education, representation, and safety for all residents.
The campaign opened the event with a powerful message:
“We are dedicated to transforming systems to increase access, remove barriers to opportunity, address discrimination, and foster a community where all identities are respected.”
Their mission was reflected in every performance showcased that night. The event created a space where individuals could show up as their full, authentic selves—feeling safe, seen, and celebrated.
Amid the summer heat, attendees cooled down with refreshing drinks from Topo Chico, Bubbl’r Antioxidant Sparkling Water, Yerba Madre, and Sip Munch Cafe, plus all-natural frozen popsicles from Mom & Pops. As live music blared from the speakers, performers gathered around the center stage, eager to draw attendees in. Dance sessions broke out the moment “Everybody Dance Now” played. Instructors guided the crowd through simple two-step moves to songs like “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Boomerang.”
Upstairs, the “Asian Season” vendor market offered a curated selection celebrating Asian American creativity and entrepreneurship. “Asian Season,” an Austin-based organization, encourages individuals to embrace their unique identities while building a stronger and more vibrant community. Vendors showcased handmade crafts, art prints, delicious pastries, and one-of-a-kind products. From indoor showcases to outdoor performances, the event celebrated Austin’s cultural richness with something for everyone.
allie arnaez
As the night drew to a close, the grand finale belonged to mHart—Austin’s first and only Asian American music label—which delivered a powerful performance celebrating identity, artistry, and community. Founded by Cambodian-born creative Waverly, mHart is more than just a record label—it’s a movement. Its mission is to validate and amplify the Asian American experience in mainstream music and media. At “Party at the People’s House,” that mission came to life.
The crowd gathered in anticipation for performances by mHart artists Allie Arnaez and Francene Rouelle, who brought both artistry and authenticity to the stage. Allie and her crew kicked things off with high-energy choreography that set the standard for the rest of the night. The crowd was completely captivated, cheering her on for more.
francelle rouelle
Francene followed with a powerful track from her unreleased album, due out August 1st—giving the audience a sneak peek and a taste of what’s to come. Her crew cheered from the audience, dancing and singing along, creating a feedback loop of love and energy between her and the crowd. By the end of the night, it was clear: mHart owned that stage.
“Party at the People’s House” isn’t just a yearly event—it’s a statement. A message of resistance against hate, and a vivid celebration of the people who make Austin home. Through shared meals, music, and movement, “Party at the People’s House” offers a safe haven for those looking to connect, inspire, and build community. A truth that resonates far beyond that day:
We belong. We create. We lead.
FOLLOW THE ARTISTs:
Allie Arnaez:
Instagram: @alliearnaez
Spotify: Allie Arnaez on Spotify
Francene Rouelle:
Instagram: @francenerouelle
Spotify: Francene Rouelle on Spotify