11 ways to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in North Texas
The Asian-American population, encompassing plenty of different customs, nationalities and cultures, is growing at a faster percentage in North Texas than any other demographic group. Six percent of Dallas-Fort Worth residents have Asian roots and are a flourishing part of the area’s cultural landscape. May, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, is the perfect time to learn more about the diverse Asian population.
Pick up a tea kit
In collaboration with the Korean American Youth Artists of Texas, the city of Carrollton is offering tea kits throughout the month of May to commemorate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Pick up this special grab & go kit from Josey Ranch Lake or Hebron & Josey Library while supplies last.
Take part in the AsiaFest Art Expo
Plano’s AsiaFest, on for the 18th year, will showcase the rich cultures of Asia on Saturday, May 7 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Haggard Park. The numerous cultural demonstrations, performances and vendors will provide a fun and engaging time for your entire family. Learn about the Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Indonesian languages and about Chinese and Indian healing techniques. Experience the cultural melodies created by a variety of indigenous instruments, accompanied by ethnic dances, and watch martial arts demonstrations. You can purchase unique items from various cultures, from artifacts to traditional garments. Children can enjoy special arts and crafts booths. Thai, Chinese, Indian and Japanese food will be available.
Create shadow puppets
Shadow puppet theater is popular in various cultures and has a long history in Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia. The Fort Worth Library will provide folktales from various Asian countries for families to create shadow puppets. Once your puppets are created, your family can reenact the folktale using a shadow puppet theater. The program is offered: 1 p.m. May 7 at Ella Mae Shamblee, 1 p.m. May 14 at Southwest Regional and 4 p.m. May 27 at Reby Cary Youth Library. The library also offers pachisi and origami lessons.
Join the Asian American and Pacific Islander Celebration
The City of Bedford is hosting its second annual Asian American and Pacific Islander Celebration on Saturday, May 7 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Old Bedford School. Enjoy cultural activities like a lion dance and fire dance. Communities of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders will share their rich traditions and cultures with live music, dance and traditional food.
Stream Asian-American history
During the month, Dallas Library has programs to celebrate, honor and highlight AAPI heritage. It kicks off on May 8 at 2 p.m. with an online discussion of racism against Asians in the past and present, in addition to historical xenophobia and racism against Asians and the rise in hate crimes against Asians during the COVID-19 pandemic. Panelists will share resources on how to promote safety, prevention, and reporting hate crimes. To register, visit the website. Other events include henna art, origami lessons, Japanese storytelling and Indian classical dance.
Hear Asian-American stories
Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the Arlington Public Library. The first event in the series is a virtual Mandarin Chinese storytime on Thursday, May 13 at 5 p.m. Kindergarten through first grade students will hear a fun story and then participate in a short activity writing and speaking Mandarin. Register online. Throughout the rest of May, you can pick up an origami kit, learn how to make dumplings and discuss books about Asian heritage.
Marvel at cultural performances
Performances of Chinese opera and dance, hula, Thai dance and Philippine bamboo dance at the AT&T Discovery District will highlight the culture of the AAPI community. The show will be held on on May 15 at 11 a.m.
Enjoy the Asian Heritage Celebration
Make plans to come out to Arlington’s Levitt Pavilion for the Asian Heritage Celebration on May 15 at 4 p.m. Designed to showcase culture, food, music and traditional dancing, this event highlights traditional and modern Asian cultures that have enriched daily lives around the world for generations. Experience the dragon dance, the Chinese ribbon dance, tai chi, Japanese origami and Chinese brush painting. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs to sit on the lawn.
Watch South Asian films
The eighth annual DFW South Asian Film Festival will bring North Texas audiences a premiere-studded, gala-filled red carpet experience from May 20 to 22. Festival-goers will enjoy screenings, opening night and closing night galas and panel discussions at the Grandscape. The festival will showcase premieres of features, shorts and documentaries, all chosen to engage, educate and inspire audiences. The wide range of films explore issues that affect South Asians living and working in America, as well as back home. This year’s film premieres include Pakistani rom-com “Americanish” and Bollywood drama “The Tenant.” Buy tickets online.
Learn about Asian heritage
Asian Heritage Fest, a free two-weekend outdoor celebration, will feature fire and hula dancers, lion dances and other cultural performances. Enjoy live music and food vendors at Asia Times Square in Grand Prairie on May 20 to 22 and May 27 to 29.
Experience Indian culture
The Festival of Joy, a yearly spring festival at Klyde Warren Park, will be taking place on May 21 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The festival is a vibrant celebration of South Asian heritage and culture. It kicks off with a parade of colorful chariots and features yoga and meditation instruction, henna art and Indian street food.
