The Asian American and Pacific Islander umbrella encompasses a wide range of cultures, languages and histories — and they will all be celebrated in May during AAPI Heritage Month.
In New York City, the Asian population is highly diverse. More than half of Asian New Yorkers are of Chinese descent, with other large communities including Indian, Korean and Filipino residents.
This year’s national theme, “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together,” highlights the importance of collective strength, storytelling and building bridges across communities. Here are family activities, tours, concerts and food festivals across New York City where you can learn more about and support Asian American communities.
Run, walk, explore nature!
Across New York City, there are many ways to explore the connections between nature and Asian cultures.
Spring is the perfect time to experience Japanese haiku, a poetic form deeply inspired by nature. You can join the Urban Park Rangers for a hike in Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx for an “Ocean Haiku Hike” on May 3, where you might pause to read seasonal haiku or even try writing your own.
Trees across the city are blooming with flagrant flowers, but it’s not always easy to tell them apart. The New York City Parks Department is hosting an event called “The Magnificent Street Trees of Flushing” on May 2 where participants can learn about the trees’ Asian roots.
Spring migration is also in full swing. With the cute American woodcock recently drawing crowds in Bryant Park, birdwatching has become a highlight of the season. You can take guided tours in Staten Island to spot birds that hold significance in East Asian culture and folklore as part of the “Birds of Eastern Culture” event on May 17.
Curious about the story behind the “Bloody Angle”? Or who Seward was? You won’t want to miss this tour located in the heart of the Lower East Side. The Urban Park Rangers will answer questions and guide you through the parks of Chinatown on May 23, highlighting significant events and commemorations.
If you’re feeling active, the annual AAPI 5K fundraiser returns this May. Participants are welcomed to run or walk the 3.1-mile route along West Street in costume, with bonus points for anime-inspired outfits. The event, which supports AAPI small businesses and raises funds for nonprofit organizations, also promotes a safer and more welcoming environment for AAPI runners and walkers. Registration is now open.
Museums
New York City is home to nearly 190 museums, making it hard to see them all. This May, consider exploring them through special AAPI-focused programs across the city.
Join a panel at the Museum of Chinese in America honoring Wong Chin Foo (1847–1898), who is credited with coining the term “Chinese American.” Experience the artistry of Mei Lanfang (1894–1961), one of the most influential performers of Peking opera, presented by the China Institute of America.
You can also step into the serene Rubin Museum Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room to learn, reflect, or find inspiration. At MoMA PS1, an installation curated by Red Canary Song reimagines a dim sum restaurant as a space to tell stories about migration, care, desire, grief and cultural heritage.
Cultural institutions like the Asia Society and Japan Society also offer programs that provide thoughtful ways to engage with Asian American histories, art and lived experiences. Keep an eye out for upcoming events.
Music and Film
At the Glow Cultural Center in Flushing, the annual “Love & Unity” program features a special concert following a community resource fair, including the New York debut of the Joy Luck Trio: Donna Weng Friedman, Gao Hong and Karen Han.
The Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year, celebrations may have passed, but the festivities continue. On Thursday, April 30, the Helen Marshall Cultural Center will host an event featuring cultural performances, authentic cuisine and more. Make sure you register before going!
Catch the Tuvergen Band, featuring Tamir Hargana, Naizal Hargana and Brent Roman, live at Flushing Town Hall on May 17. Blending traditional Mongolian throat singing and the morin khuur, the band’s music is rooted in centuries-old traditions with modern twists like rock, blues and bluegrass.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, including storytime sessions with authors Anu Sehgal and Michele Wong McSween; dumpling-making with chef Christine Wong; and a storytelling and dance workshop with Ajna Dance Company, where participants can learn expressive hand gestures (mudras) and explore the storytelling traditions of Indian dance. Free admission is available every Thursday from 2 to 5 in the afternoon.
The renowned Hong Kong movie actor Tony Leung is making his first return to Film at Lincoln Center in more than 25 years. From the end of April to the beginning of May, you can watch 14 different films featuring Leung, including “Chungking Express” (1994), “In the Mood for Love” (2000), and “The Grandmaster (2013) and his latest Silent Friend” (2025).
CUNY students, don’t miss the chance to submit your film to the Asian American Film Festival. More than $16,000 in cash prizes will be awarded, and selected films will be screened.
Explore books for adults, teens and children that highlight the diversity of experiences within AANHPI communities with the New York Public Library. You can also find titles available in accessible formats here.
Food Festivals
Bird’s nest has long been considered one of the most luxurious delicacies in Chinese culture. How do you prepare it at home? Why are certain foods enjoyed in different seasons? Po Wing Hong and the Museum of Chinese in America invite you to an engaging tasting and conversation celebrating the flavors and stories behind tong sui, traditional Chinese sweet soups.
Think!Chinatown opens its kitchen studio to community members who want to learn and enjoy a bowl of delicious pork dumplings. Guests will prepare traditional dumpling fillings, learn a range of folding techniques, and dive into insider tips and tricks to dumpling making. Book today – the ticket also includes beverages, snacks and side dishes.
Behind the New York Hall of Science in Flushing Meadow Corona Park, the Queens Night Market opens its door to all New Yorkers with over 100 independent vendors every Saturday throughout summer and fall.
Party poppers and lion dancing celebrations will fill the streets this May. On May 17, Better Chinatown and other local groups will bring the annual AAPI Cultural and Heritage Parade back to Midtown Manhattan. Earlier in the month, the Japan Parade on May 9 will celebrate Japanese culture with performances, food and festivities. Take advantage of these limited-time cultural experiences to learn about and support AAPI communities.
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