By Faye Qiu

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 8 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.

Photo credit: Tada Images/Shutterstock