May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month — a time to celebrate the diverse cultures, histories, and achievements of AAPI communities across the country and right here in New York City.
This year’s national theme, “A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience,” highlights the enduring strength, innovation, and cultural contributions of the AAPI community. But it’s more than just a tribute to past accomplishments and traditions — it’s also meant to be a call to action that inspires younger and future AAPI generations. From family-friendly activities to artful exhibits and mouth-watering meals, here’s your guide to the best free and low-cost AAPI events happening across the city this May.
A brief history of AAPI Heritage Month
Before we jump into the celebrations, let’s take a quick look at how AAPI Heritage Month came to be.
In 1977, U.S. Representative Frank Horton (NY) introduced a resolution to designate the first ten days of May as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week. May was chosen in commemoration of two significant historical events: On May 7, 1843, the first Japanese immigrants arrived in the U.S., and on May 10, 1869, the transcontinental railroad, constructed largely by Chinese workers, was completed.
Years later, after tireless efforts from community organizers and advocates — including Jeanie Jew, a former Congressional staffer and fourth-generation Chinese American — the Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week was expanded to an entire month. And in 1992, May was officially named Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
Today, as we reflect on the rich heritage and resilience of AAPI individuals and communities, New York City’s vibrant cultural landscape offers many meaningful and fun ways to celebrate this important month. Here, we list 9 things to do in NYC to celebrate this month.
Enjoy free interactive cultural experiences in NYC Parks
NYC Parks celebrates AAPI Heritage Month with weeks of free public events. Learn how nature influences Chinese calligraphy at Kissena Park. Take a Filipino Tinikiling dance workshop at the King Manor Museum. Join a walking tour of Asian American historical landmarks or dive into a cultural exploration of how the ocean impacts AAPI communities.
Stuck at home? No problem. You can reset your chakras and enjoy a virtual evening of yoga and meditation to celebrate the Flower Full moon.
Check out NYC Parks’ full list of events here.
Read all about it! Check out NYPL’s AAPI events and exhibits
Throughout May, the New York Public Library is hosting a rich array of free events and programs celebrating AAPI heritage. From author talks with acclaimed writers such as Derek Kirk Kim, Madeleine Thien, Kevin Nguyen, and Matt Braly, to lively panel discussions, STEAM workshops, children storytimes, as well as painting, music and crafting classes—there really is something for everyone.
Visitors can also enjoy curated reading lists, Asian American art and literature exhibitions, and access to special collections that focus on Chinatown heritage materials and Korean historical archives. Additionally, the library is hosting a month-long series of film screenings that celebrate AAPI heritage, including classic films like Shanghai Express (1932) and Flower Drum Song (1961), as well as contemporary features such as Yellow Rose and The Farewell.
Head to Manhattan’s Chinatown and celebrate with the locals
You Shen (God Parade) Photo: Chinatown B.I.D.
There is no place quite like New York City’s Chinatown, a historic neighborhood that has played a pivotal role in Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage in the United States. Visitors are invited to take part in a series of colorful street festivals in May, featuring traditional Taiko drumming, lively Canton Pop performances, the ceremonial You Shen (God Parade), a curated Artisan Market, community dance events such as the Chinatown Cha Cha, and a culinary showcase featuring authentic and delicious offerings from neighborhood vendors.
Make the most of museums
Museums across New York City are hosting special exhibits and programs throughout May in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month. Here are a few not to miss:
- Asian Society Museum: From literary talks to children’s activities, music and dance performances, and film screenings, the Asian Society Museum is hitting all the high notes this May.
- Museum of Chinese in America: Check out performances like “Scenes from Interior Chinatown”, an author talk with Abigail Hing Wen, portrait-making workshops of Asian American luminaries, and cultural celebrations such as the Dragon Boat Family Festival. MOCA’s core exhibit, With a Single Step, will also trace back over 160 years of Chinese American history through artifacts, photographs, and personal stories.
- Brooklyn Children’s Museum: BCM is celebrating AAPI Heritage Month with a special storytime series every Thursday at 3:00 p.m. throughout May. Each week also features a unique cultural experience, including author readings, bilingual English-Chinese storytelling, South Asian dance learning, hands-on dumpling-making, and a dynamic retelling of Mulan by the New York Chinese Cultural Center.
Listen to stories that shape AAPI identity, resilience, and creativity
- Think!Chinatown: The Chinatown Storytelling Festival 2025 celebrates the community’s rich heritage through film screenings, walking tours, workshops, and live performances. On May 8, be sure to check out the opening night showcase of emerging storytellers, a personal storytelling workshop, the “Chinatown ’75” historical walking tour, and a film series focused on food culture and archival footage of Chinatown’s activism. Most of these events are “pay as you wish” and RSVPs are encouraged or required.
- YumChaa AAPI Storytelling Series: On May 8, in honor of AAPI Heritage Month, the YumChaa AAPI Storytelling Series will debut at No Nazar Cafe. Under the theme, “Our Asian Parents,” the event will feature an all-star line up of AAPI storytellers, including Dr. Zakia Ghafari, Rohan Zhou-Lee, Stephanie Cherng, Maryam Chrishti, and Xiaowen Liang. The show will be hosted by the great Ricky Sim, a critically acclaimed Queens-based queer comedian. Don’t skimp on the laughs — get yourself a ticket to enjoy an evening of tea and tales.
Where: No Nazar Cafe, 280 East 10th Street, New York
When: 7 – 8:30pm. Doors open at 6:45pm
Age for admission: 18+
Tickets: $23.18
Savor the flavors of Asia through food festivals and night markets
- Dragon Fest: Dragon Fest is an annual outdoor Chinese food and culture festival — but what better time to check it out than AAPI Heritage Month? Complete with activities, tastings, and market fairs that showcase the vibrant food, art, and cultural traditions of China, Dragon Fest is not to be missed.
- Asia in a Bite Food Fest: Asia in a Bite Food Fest returns to Long Island City on May 10–11, 2025, offering a bold celebration of Asian cuisine and culture. From 11:00 am to 7:00 pm each day, attendees can explore a diverse array of dishes from over 30 food vendors, featuring flavors from across Asia. The festival also boasts live performances, cultural activities, and family-friendly entertainment, creating an immersive experience for all ages. Admission is free, with food available for purchase. For more details and to RSVP, visit the Eventbrite page.
- The Queer AAPI Food Festival 2025: The second annual Center the Culture: AAPI Food Festival will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 5:00 to 9:00 pm at The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center in Manhattan. Hosted by The Center, this free event spotlights the culinary traditions and cultural contributions of the LGBTQ+ AAPI community through food, performances, and meaningful community engagement. Registration is required.
- AAPI Night Market at Barclays Center: The 4th Annual AAPI Night Market will take place at Barclays Center on Tuesday, May 13, at 6:00 pm, celebrating the Asian American and Pacific Islander community with complimentary food from local vendors, live performances, family-friendly activities, and more. This event is free and open to the public.
Run a 5K!
The AAPI 5K is a community run celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. You can run as part of a team or as an individual, just be sure to register by May 18. This will be a fun, safe and welcoming space for all runners. You can also support the event virtually by running the 5K remotely — or you can donate to one of several recommended AAPI non-profits and organizations which do incredible advocacy work year round.
- Time: Sunday, May 24, 2025, 8:30 – 9:30 am
- Location: Pier 45, Hudson River Greenway, NYC, NY
- Ticket: $35.24
Pro tip: There is also an optional costume challenge — bonus points for cartoon or cosplay!
Hit the streets at the Japan Parade and Street Fair
Photo: Japan Parade and Street Fair
On Saturday, May 10, check out the Japan Parade and Street Fair — a free, family-friendly event that begins with an exciting parade along Central Park West, from 81st to 67th Street. The event will feature dynamic performances, taiko drumming, traditional dances, martial arts demonstrations, and cultural displays. The parade kicks off at 1:00 pm, following an opening ceremony at 12:30 pm.
From 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, the street fair portion of the event, held on adjacent 72nd Street, offers a vibrant mix of Japanese street food, artisanal crafts, cultural exhibits, sake tasting, and interactive workshops in calligraphy and origami. All are welcome!
March together: Join the annual AAPI Cultural Heritage parade
To close out AAPI Heritage Month, the annual AAPI Cultural Heritage Parade, organized by the Better Chinatown USA Society, will take place on Sunday, June 1, 2025, from 12:00 to 3:00 PM along Sixth Avenue in Manhattan, spanning from 44th to 55th Street. Now in its fourth year, the parade celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage with an opening ceremony at 44th Street beginning at noon. Don’t miss it!
市长参选人访华社 游民所问题成焦点
New York City is home to one of the largest and most diverse AAPI populations in the U.S. — and this month is all about showing up for one another, learning something new, and celebrating the cultures that enrich our city every day.
Whether you’re watching the parade, listening to a storyteller, or simply enjoying a plate of dumplings with your neighbor, you’re part of something powerful. Let’s keep building connection, understanding, and joy together.
Happy AAPI Heritage Month, NYC!
