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OC Transpo, hungry for revenue from special events, now wants an Asian food and culture festival to pay up.

The second annual Ottawa Asian Fest is June 17-19 at Lansdowne Park, and according to co-ordinator Simon Huang, the city’s transit agency wants the festival to pay up to $18,000 to cover enhanced bus service.

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“When we heard that we were shocked,” Huang said Monday. “What we want from OC Transpo is to give us a break.”

Huang said the operating budget for the festival is only $65,000, so charging another $18,000 would be a huge burden. The festival operated at a loss last year, with the difference covered by the volunteer board of directors, Huang said.

Admission to the festival is free; there are no ticket holders to absorb a transit fee.

Keeping the festival free for families is important to organizers, who want to showcase Asian culture through traditional food, art and a special night market. The night market lasts until midnight June 17 and June 18.