Every May, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month honors the rich and expansive histories and cultures of Asian and Pacific Islander communities worldwide. Here in Boston, a variety of celebratory events take place across the city. From kid-friendly crafts to performances from across the diaspora, here are seven ways to celebrate this year’s AAPI Heritage Month in Greater Boston.
LION AND LIT The various BPL locations will celebrate AAPI Heritage Month throughout May, offering a variety of events and activities. BPL staff have compiled a 77-book list of recent titles emphasizing AAPI culture and experiences, as well as platforming artists and authors. Several branches will host events, including an onigiri-making workshop at Codman Square and lion and dragon dance performances in Brighton and the West End, plus several author talks and screenings. May, times vary. Free admission. Locations vary. bpl.org
FOR JERSEYS AND JOY Fenway Park will host a special celebration of AAPI Heritage Month as the Red Sox play the Minnesota Twins. Before the first pitch, there will be an opportunity to watch cultural performances and enjoy special food and beverages. Guests who purchase tickets through the special offer will receive a Red Sox AAPI Celebration jersey featuring hibiscus flowers to honor the Pacific Islands and a red and yellow snake to acknowledge the Year of the Snake. May 2, 7:10 p.m . Ticket prices vary. Fenway Park, 4 Jersey St. mlb.com
CRAFTS AND CULTURE Celebrate heritage, tradition, and art at the Boston Children’s Museum, which will offer exhibits, crafts, music, and dance to honor local AAPI artists and observe AAPI Heritage Month. Watch the Nüwa Athletic Club perform a Chinese lion dance, attend a reading with author Zain Bandali, or draw with Bren Bataclan. May 5-26, times vary. $22 . Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St. bostonchildrensmuseum.org
HONORING AAPI EXCELLENCE The annual Unity Dinner honors the AAPI community across Massachusetts and encourages diverse fund-raising and advocacy. The celebration includes guest speakers, showings and performances, awards, and, of course, delicious food. The dinner seeks to recognize the accomplishments of AAPI individuals and their contributions, honoring new community leaders each year with Lifetime Achievement, Leadership for Diversity & Inclusion, and Unsung Hero Awards. May 10, 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $129.89. Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, 5400 Computer Drive, Westborough. aapicommission.org
VOICES FROM THE DIASPORA Boston Cecilia will close out its 149th season with performances of Asian and Asian-American choral music. Premiering in the US for the first time is Japanese composer Hina Sakamoto’s “Requiem.’’ The titular performance, “The Tipping Point’’ by Indian-American composer Reena Esmail, anchors the performance. Giri Subramaniam will accompany on the tabla, a traditional Indian percussion instrument. Music from Turkey, China, and the Philippines will also be featured. May 17, 8 p.m. Tickets are $15-$62. All Saints Parish, 1773 Beacon St., Brookline. bostoncecilia.org
STRIDES FOR AAPI The Boston Road Runners will celebrate the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities by hosting a 5K run fund-raiser for local AAPI nonprofits. OCA New England, Asian Women for Health, and Asian Community Development Corporation are a few of the many charities partnering with the Road Runners for the event. May 18, 9 a.m. race start . Registration is $30 . Metropolitan District Commission Pavilion, 165 HarborWalk . bostonroadrunners.org
DANCES, DEMOS, AND DISCOVERY The Museum of Science will host an AAPI Month celebration featuring activities, speakers, community organizations, and performances of traditional dances such as Kuchipudi and lion dance demonstrations. Throughout the month, the museum will also share Suitcase Stories of migration and inclusivity by local AAPI storytellers. May 17, times vary. Tickets are $26 for children, $31 for adults. Museum of Science, 1 Science Park. mos.org
Haley Clough can be reached at haley.clough @globe.com. Follow her on Instagram @hcloughjournalism.
