AAPI Heritage Month, observed annually in May, pays tribute to the diverse cultures, histories, and traditions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, while also raising awareness about the challenges they face and the ongoing fight for equity and justice. The 2024 AAPI Heritage Month theme is “Advancing Leaders Through Innovation”.
As we honor the rich heritage and resilience of AAPI individuals and communities, New York City’s vibrant cultural landscape provides meaningful activities for celebrating the voices and experiences of AAPI New Yorkers. Here, we list 8 things to do in NYC to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month.
Enjoy free history tours and fun activities at the parks in NYC
NYC Parks provides the public with a full month of activities to celebrate with the Urban Park Rangers, featuring free history tours and fun activities around the city. The programs include cherry blossom celebration, nature calligraphy, historic Flushing, Ginkgo tree celebration, Chinatown parks, and Evergreen Cemetery.
Run a 5K
The AAPI 5K is a community run celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. The run will highlight the vibrant Asian American community and organizations that work year-round to create a safe and welcoming space. The event will fundraise for incredible AAPI non-profits. You can support the event virtually by running the 5K remotely as well.
- Time: Sunday, May 12, 2024, 9:00 AM
- Location: Pier 62 on the Hudson River Greenway
- Ticket: $32
Read Corky Lee’s Asian America
As an observer and photojournalist, Corky Lee appeared at numerous pivotal moments within the Asian American community in New York and beyond over the past half-century. Through his photographs, he documented the unnoticed facets of the rapidly growing community in the U.S., portraying everything from everyday life to social justice movements. In doing so, he shattered stereotypes of Asian Americans as docile, passive, and foreign to the country.
Lee died at the age of 73 from complications due to COVID-19 on January 27, 2021. On April 9, the first book of its kind, “Corky Lee’s Asian America,” was published nationwide online and in bookstores. Visual artist Chee Wang Ng and Columbia University history professor Mae Ngai have curated a retrospective of Lee’s work.
To learn more, read Documented’s article from January that highlights the book and Corky Lee’s history.
Join the New York Public Library’s family friendly programming
The activities for AAPI Heritage Month cater to people of all ages and are ideal for families to enjoy together. They encompass film screenings, arts and crafts workshops, and book groups.
Explore AAPI-themed activities at museums or AAPI organizations
Various museums in NYC host exhibitions to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month. Visit the museums and learn more about the AAPI communities. We list a few here:
- Museum of the City New York: Check out the free virtual workshop for grades 3-5 Hidden Voices of New York City: Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
- Asian Society: Events include talks with AAPI authors, Indian classical dance performances, discussions about mental health issues in the community, and more
- Museum of Chinese in America: Events include a film screening, a tai chi workshop, a kids-friendly tour of Chinatown, and more
- China Institute: Events include Chinese language learning events, artist talks, and Chinese classical music performances
- Japan Society: Check out Film & Art Night: Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month
Join the third annual AAPI Cultural Heritage parade
On Sunday, May 19, the Better Chinatown USA Society will hold New York City’s annual AAPI Cultural Heritage parade. The festivities will take place along Sixth Avenue, from 44th to 55th streets in Manhattan. This marks the third year for the parade celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage.
- Time: Sunday, May 19, 2024, 1:00 PM. Opening Ceremony at 44th Street at 12:30 PM
- Location: Six Avenue between 44th Street and 55th Street in Manhattan
Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with local politicians
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine and Assembly Member Grace Lee host a joint celebration in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. At the event, they will acknowledge the exceptional work of remarkable individuals and groups within the community who have made significant strides in breaking barriers and promoting equity.
- Time: Sunday, May 19, 2024, 5:30 PM
- Location: Manny Cantor Center, 197 East Broadway
- RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bp-levine-and-am-lee-host-breaking-barriers-an-aapi-heritage-month-event-tickets-631236313807
Enjoy the taste of China
Dragon Fest is an annual outdoor Chinese food and culture festival with activities, tastings, and market fairs that showcase the vibrant food, art and cultural traditions of China. It is a cultural platform that connects people in New York to Chinese restaurants, food vendors, artists and local communities. The event lasts from April to October with an expanded lineup of 16 events across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, offering attendees a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic Chinese cuisine and cultural traditions.
