20 Ways to Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

In 1992 the month of May was designated as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month by then-President George H. W. Bush. The month has since evolved to become the Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI Heritage Month). The month of May was chosen since it marks two key events, including the arrival of the first-known immigrants from Japan in 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1969, which was built primarily by Chinese immigrants.

There are lots of ways to honor and celebrate the contributions of past and present Asian Americans, including festivals, parades, educational classes, museums, sporting events, walking tours, and even bookstore events. Here are 20 ways that the whole family can celebrate.