May is always a busy time for the Central Texas AAPI community. With AAPI Heritage Month bringing fun and fascinating cultural events to exciting spots across our region, It can be hard to keep track of everything going on!
That’s why we’ve compiled this list of AAPI Heritage Month events from around our community. Many of these events are free to attend. We’ll be updating the list throughout the month of May, so be sure to bookmark this page and check back often so you’re sure not to miss anything!
If you are interested in adding your AAPI-related May event to our list, please reach out to [email protected].
Join the Austin Community College District for a screening of the award-winning documentary “Not Your Model Minority,” followed by a panel discussion with students, faculty, staff, and community. We will explore how the “model minority” myth has been perpetuated over time, as well as how it continues to affect individuals and communities today.
More info & RSVP HERE
When: Tuesday, May 2, 2023
Where: ACC Highland Presentation Hall, Building 2000 (HLC 2.1550)
The Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Cultural Center at ACC is partnering with Asian Family Support Services of Austin (AFSSA) and ACC Mental Health Counseling to host a Healthy Relationships Workshop and lunch in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month. This one-house workshop will concentrate on fostering healthy relationships by delving into topics such as consent, boundaries, and intervention.
AFSSA is a nonprofit organization based in Austin, Texas, that provides assistance to families dealing with domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking. Their bilingual and bicultural staff have their own interpreters providing services in 39 different languages in the following Central Texas counties: Travis, Williamson, Hays, Caldwell, Lee, Fayette, Blanco, Burnet, Llano, and Bastrop. AFSSA provides phone support, referrals, and system advocacy to all part of Texas and outside of the state for those who cannot access similar services within their local jurisdiction. Visit their website for more information.
ACC’s Mental Health Counseling offers services and programs across the district to help students build resilience, find balance, and help maintain safety, health and overall wellness. Students can find support via the Mental Health Counseling website.
Free Admission and Parking
More info & RSVP HERE
When: Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 12-1PM
Where: Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Center, ACC-Highland Campus, Building 4000 (Room 4.2205)
Celebrate Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month by creating paper plate art inspired by Indian American artist Abhidnya Ghuge.
Drop by the library and make a craft while you search for books, movies and music. We’ve got paper crafts, easy sewing and more fun projects for the whole family. We provide the supplies; you provide the creativity. Program length is approximately 1 hour.
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Yarborough Branch, 2200 Hancock Dr.
With special acknowledgement to our program partner Taiwan academy in Houston, an arm of the Taiwan Ministry of Culture
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Central Library, 710 W. César Chávez St., Demonstration Area (1st floor)
We invite you to participate in Austin Public Library’s LGBTQIA+ book club, Reading the Rainbow! This month, we are reading She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan.
Please register on Eventbrite to attend. Using your registration info, your book club moderator will email you an invitation to the virtual side of the event. If you are attending in person, we meet at the Twin Oaks branch.
Registration closes at 12pm on May 1st.
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Twin Oaks Branch, 1800 S. Fifth St.
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Central Library, 710 W. César Chávez St., Gallery (2nd floor)
We invite you to an evening of inspiration and unity at the 2024 Austin AAPI Professional Summit! This groundbreaking is the first of its kind through the official collaboration between Dell Asian in Action, 12+ other AAPI employee resource groups in Austin, the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce (GAACC), and the Asian American Resource Center (AARC). Light food and refreshments will be provided. All are welcome to attend. This event is free with RSVP.
Our mission is to bridge our Austin Asian American and Pacific Islander business professionals with Austin AAPI nonprofit community professionals to synergize our support and create a more significant impact within the Austin AAPI community. This summit isn’t just one and done! We intend to create space for meaningful dialogue, exchanging innovative ideas, and fostering a supportive, inclusive environment for years to come.
The Austin Asian Professional Summit is made possible through official collaboration between:
12+ corporate ERG programming hosts
Asian American Resource Center (AARC)
Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce (GAACC)
With the unwavering contribution Orchid Events and Northshore Media Productions
Join us to learn from a panel of speakers made up of AAPI business and community leaders sharing how they fortify connections and drive positive impact in the city as AAPI individuals.
8+ non-profits: We will speak and set up booths to showcase the different AAPI Austin nonprofit organizations and initiatives that support the AAPI community in Austin
Corporate ERG Program Hosts:
Adobe
AMD
Applied Materials
CharlesSchwab
Dell Technologies
Emerson
Expedia
Gartner
Google
Indeed
NationalInstruments
Oracle
and more…
Participating AAPI Nonprofit & NGOs:
Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce, Asian American Resource Center, Austin Asian Community Health Initiative, Austin Asian American Film Festival, Asian Texans for Justice, The New Philanthropists, Asian Leaders Alliance, Ascend, and more
Event Vendors and Sponsors:
Orchid Events, Northshore Media Productions, Tso Delivery, Din Ho, Inn Cahoots, Coca Cola Zero
Where: Asian American Resource Center Austin, Texas
“Y’all We Asian” is Austin’s (and Texas’) first all Asian-American improv troupe. “Y’all We Asian” won the 2018 B. Iden Payne “Ethel Hinkley Award for Outstanding New Improv Troupe,” won Austin Chronicle’s “Best Of Austin” Critics Pick for “Best Rising Stars of Improv” in 2019, and has been mentioned in The New York Times, The Austin Chronicle, and Austin Monthly. The troupe has performed at the Del Close Marathon (NYC), and Out of Bounds (ATX), and at SF Sketchfest. The troupe’s sold-out mainstage runs include “Starring Y’all We Asian,” “Y’all We Asian: Summer Vacation,” and “Y’all We Asian Presents Family Style.”
“Y’all We Asian” is Attiya Ali, Nick Fung, Sunny Huang, Jane Lee, G-Su Paek, Ananya Roy, Virgil Shelby, Norman Tran, Mary Vo, Uday Waghmere, and Kish Yu.
Every First Friday at 8:00pm | $15 online $18 door
Fallout Theater has a bar now!! NO BYOB.
Where: Fallout Theater, 616 Lavaca St. Austin, TX 78701
The fillings and wrappers will be ready and waiting. As our Instructors guide you, your nimble fingers will fill and fold and then create several dipping sauces. You’ll sample a variety of dumplings as our instructors offer tips on steaming, frying and boiling these bite-sized morsels and then take a sampling of your dumplings with you at the end of class.
For ages 18 & up. 21 or older? You’ll enjoy a glass of wine that will complement the flavors of your dumplings.
Where: Central Market Austin North Lamar, 4001 North Lamar Boulevard Austin, TX 78756
Come watch an exciting and captivating Diabolo performance by the Texas Diabolo Group. Everyone is welcome to learn about this fun juggling prop.
About the presenter:
Peng-An Ang has dedicated years to mastering the art of diabolo juggling, delighting audiences with his skillful and artistic performances. He achieved national recognition as the 3rd place champion in the 2023 USA National Diabolo Competition. He now imparts his love for the diabolo as an instructor at various schools to bring a wealth of experience and a touch of magic to the world of diabolo.
Texas Diabolo Association:
Texas Diabolo Association is an organization serving to unite diabolists across Texas and a diabolo performance team at UT Austin that blends the traditional pastime of diabolo with modern music. They aim to spread Asian American culture through teaching, performing, and fostering a vibrant community centered around their shared passion for diabolo. Members are encouraged to learn about and perform for events at UT and throughout Austin such as Trail of Lights, Jugglefest, and UT AAC’s Lunar New Year Celebration. By actively engaging in these opportunities, TDA members not only refine their diabolo skills but also contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Austin, creating unforgettable moments for both participants and audiences alike.
Where: Willie Mae Kirk Branch, 3101 Oak Springs Dr.
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Ruiz Branch, 1600 Grove Blvd.
If you have any questions you’d like discussed during the meeting, please send them to [email protected], or send a direct message through Instagram to @collectedabundance.
Where: online meeting
Recommended for ages 3 and up
Where: Austin Public Library, 835 West Rundberg Lane Austin, TX 78758
Celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we will learn how to make a paper ti leaf lei together. The presentation starts with browsing through artifacts archived at the Austin History Center to introduce different ways of storytelling. Then, we will honor the Hawaiian storytelling tradition of hula and learn about the role of lei before making leis together.
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Milwood Branch, 12500 Amherst Dr.
West China Tea started in 2012 as a specialty importer of farm-direct Chinese tea in Austin. Having built tea culture in Texas for the past decade, WCT now operates a large tea house and offers events, classes, and training, as well as more than 200 different teas from more than 40 different suppliers from all over China. Their goal is to spread tea culture and grow community one cup at a time.
Free Admission and Parking
Where: Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Center, ACC-Highland Campus, Building 4000 (Room 4.2205)
Co-hosted by Asian Hustle Network and Subtle Asian Real Estate, the event promises to ignite inspirations, foster collaborations between small business owners and local community leaders.
With the participation of Lavinia Doan, participants will have an opportunity to expand the horizon of culinary artistry with a special focus on sushi.
Don’t miss this opportunity to dip in a melting pot of creativity and collaboration!
Many thanks to LAV SUSHI and Jerri’s Lounge for sponsoring the event.
MEET THE SPEAKER:
Lavina Doan
When the founder of LAV SUSHI, Lavinia Doan started her career as an engineer at a major oil and gas company, she didn’t know that her role would somehow catapult her into starting a sushi business.
Lavinia was sent to rotate to the Permian Basin for one of her assignments where she found a lack of quality sushi restaurants so she started hosting friends and coworkers for sushi making parties. Lavinia believed that if she could make sushi, anyone could.
The business started when Lavinia and her partner Dan got engaged and she had to find a way to save up for her weddings. The two wed on 3/4/2023 and the business still lives on with over 30 team members and operates in Houston, Austin, and Atlanta.
Agenda
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Welcome and Check-in
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Introductions
7:30 PM – 8:30 PM: Network and Mingle
8:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Closing
Where: Please register to see the exact location of this event. *Venue address will be sent out to attendees individually*
Make a small stitched coaster using traditional Japanese Sashiko embroidery patterns. Fiber artist Juliann Krute will lead the group in a basic introduction to Sashiko, students will then learn to transfer the patterns to fabric and stitch the pattern using traditional methods. All supplies provided.
This is a ticketed event. Please arrive promptly as this program will start at 10:00 am. If you do not arrive within 15 minutes of that time your seat will be given away to stand-by attendees. If you are unable to come please cancel your ticket. Thank you!
Ages 18+ only please.
Where: Hampton Branch at Oak Hill, Austin Public Library
Two Austin-based kimono experts will demonstrate how to wear a formal kimono with festive tying of obi. Patrons will experience traditional Japanese culture and learn different types of kimonos. Two presenters will bring 15-20 Yukata (summer kimono) for men, women, and kids to try on and take pictures.
Presenters:
Miyako Uchida
Born and raised in Japan. She has been fascinated by the unique patterns and colors of kimono since she was in her 20’s. She studied kimono dressing at several schools while working, and later moved on to work for a well-established kimono shop in Tokyo. She has 15 years of experience as a kimono-dressing instructor in Japan and the U.S., and sharing with people the charm and the beauty of kimono. She offered a variety of kimono workshops in different cultural events and occasions organized by UT and JASGA (Japan-America Society of Greater Austin), etc.
Ritsuko Kataoka
Born and raised in Japan. Ritsuko has shown her interest in kimono and traditional Japanese culture since a young age. After long years of dreaming about kimono lessons, she finally received her kimono dresser certification in 2018. During COVID, she decided to wear kimono every day while working remotely and to continue studying kimono dressing. She now is a certified wedding kimono dresser as well as a kimono dressing dance performer, and enjoys introducing the amazing world of kimono with the Austin Community.
Library programs and workshops reflect the creative endeavors and diverse interests of the Austin community.
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Little Walnut Creek Branch, 835 W. Rundberg Ln.
About the presenter:
Peng-An Ang has dedicated years to mastering the art of diabolo juggling, delighting audiences with his skillful and artistic performances. He achieved national recognition as the 3rd place champion in the 2023 USA National Diabolo Competition. He now imparts his love for the diabolo as an instructor at various schools to bring a wealth of experience and a touch of magic to the world of diabolo.
Texas Diabolo Association:
Texas Diabolo Association is an organization serving to unite diabolists across Texas and a diabolo performance team at UT Austin that blends the traditional pastime of diabolo with modern music. They aim to spread Asian American culture through teaching, performing, and fostering a vibrant community centered around their shared passion for diabolo. Members are encouraged to learn about and perform for events at UT and throughout Austin such as Trail of Lights, Jugglefest, and UT AAC’s Lunar New Year Celebration. By actively engaging in these opportunities, TDA members not only refine their diabolo skills but also contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Austin, creating unforgettable moments for both participants and audiences alike.
Celebrate with the Library!
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Spicewood Springs Branch, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd.
We’ll be reading The Liberators, a complex multigenerational Korean saga:
“From the Gwangju Massacre to the 1988 Olympics, flashbacks to Korean repatriation after Japanese surrender, and the Sewol ferry accident, E. J. Koh’s exquisitely drawn portraits and symphonic testimony from guards, prisoners, perpetrators, and liberators spans continents and four generations of two Korean families forever changed by fateful past decisions made in love and war.”
Where: Draught House Pub & Brewery, 4112 Medical Parkway Austin, TX 78756
When: Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 7:30PM
Where: Parish – 501 Brushy St, Austin, TX, 78702
Make a small stitched coaster using traditional Japanese Sashiko embroidery patterns. Fiber artist Juliann Krute will lead the group in a basic introduction to Sashiko, students will then learn to transfer the patterns to fabric and stitch the pattern using traditional methods. All supplies provided.
This is a ticketed event. Please arrive promptly as this program will start at 2:00 pm. If you do not arrive within 15 minutes of that time your seat will be given away to stand-by attendees. If you are unable to come please cancel your ticket. Thank you!
Ages 18+ only please.
Where: Spicewood Springs Branch, Austin Public Library, 8637 Spicewood Springs Road Austin, TX 78759
Register HERE
Where: Round Rock Public Library, 200 E Liberty Ave. Round Rock, TX 78664
For ages 18 & up.
ABOUT AMIRAH ISLAM
Austin-based chef, Amirah Islam, boasts many accolades, including being featured on Austin360, the centerfold of the Austin American Statesmen, and as winner of Top Chef Amateurs, a spin-off series of Bravo TV’s Emmy-nominated Top Chef. Chef Amirah Islam is here to uplift South Asian cuisine with authenticity, deliver new flavorful experiences, and create new food memories on her photoblog, Scottish Caramel. (www.scottishcaramel.com [scottishcaramel.com]). To learn more about Chef Amirah Islam or to reach out, visit her Instagram, @scottishcaramel.
More tickets and info HERE
Where: Central Market Austin North Lamar, 4001 North Lamar Boulevard Austin, TX 78756
Join the Vietnamese American Community of Austin Texas (VACAT) for a vibrant cultural celebration on May 18th, 2024! This free event is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and heritage of Vietnam.
Festive Fun for All Ages:
Free Li Xi & Lanterns: Embrace a Vietnamese New Year tradition with free Li Xi (lucky money envelopes) and lanterns, setting the stage for a prosperous and joyful celebration.
Big Raffle Prizes: Test your luck and enter for a chance to win exciting raffle prizes.
Non-Stop Entertainment: Immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Vietnamese culture with captivating performances by local Vietnamese artists.
Culinary Delights: Savor the delicious flavors of Vietnam as you explore a variety of food vendors offering authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
Lively Games: Take part in traditional and fun games, fostering a sense of community and friendly competition.
Thrilling Lion Dance: Witness the awe-inspiring power and grace of a traditional Lion Dance performance, a cultural highlight not to be missed.
Cultural Performances: Delve deeper into Vietnamese heritage with captivating cultural performances that showcase the beauty and artistry of Vietnamese traditions.
Kid’s Fashion Show & Lantern Parade: Witness the next generation embrace their heritage in a delightful Kid’s Fashion Show, followed by a mesmerizing Lantern Parade that will illuminate the night.
Free Admission & Family-Friendly:
This event is entirely free to attend, making it a perfect opportunity for families and individuals of all ages to experience the vibrant culture of Vietnam.
Don’t miss this exciting celebration of Vietnamese culture! Mark your calendars for May 18th and join VACAT for an unforgettable day.
More info HERE
Where: 9400 Neenah Ave, Austin, TX, 78717
Join us for an afternoon celebrating AANHPI month with live music, crafts, and food! Our performers will feature interactive Chinese songs and traditional Japanese instrumentals. Come ready to have fun and singalong and learn something new.
¡Únase a nosotros para una tarde celebrando el mes de AANHPI con música en vivo, artesanías y comida! Nuestros artistas presentarán canciones Chinas interactivas e instrumentos tradicionales Japoneses. Ven preparado para divertirte, cantar y aprender algo nuevo.
More info HERE
Where: Windsor Park Branch, 5833 Westminster Dr.
Make a small stitched coaster using traditional Japanese Sashiko embroidery patterns. Fiber artist Juliann Krute will lead the group in a basic introduction to Sashiko, students will then learn to transfer the patterns to fabric and stitch the pattern using traditional methods. All supplies provided.
This is a ticketed event. Please arrive promptly as this program will start at 2:00 pm. If you do not arrive within 15 minutes of that time your seat will be given away to stand-by attendees. If you are unable to come please cancel your ticket. Thank you!
Ages 18+ only please.
Please register for this event HERE
Where: Southeast Branch, Austin Public Library, 5803 Nuckols Crossing Rd Austin, TX 78744
The main stage will be indoors in the AARC ballroom, with special performances from a wide range of groups, including Heavenly Dragon Lion Dance Association, Austin Kyudo, KhushATX, QiLi Dance, Austin Uri Karak Dance Group, FASCA, Austin Moonflower Performing Arts Group, Senior Bollywoord Dance Group, and Saloni Dance Group.
The AARC’s classrooms will be transformed into cultural experience rooms, where you can immerse in hands-on cultural experiences. This year’s cultural experience rooms will be curated by the following groups:
- Austin Hong Kongers – The Hong Kong XR Museum will use AR technology to create a visually engaging environment that brings to life the traditions and heritage of Hong Kong.
- Indonesian Diaspora Network of Greater Austin – Learn more about the Kebaya, traditionally worn by Javanese, Sundanese, and Balinese women and now considered a national costume in Indonesia.
- Natayla School of Dance – Join in and learn more about Bharathanaytam, a type of South Asian classical dance that uses a combination of intricate movements to tell stories.
- Austin Japanese Minyo Group – Experience Japanese culture and heritage, and learn more about the traditions of origami, kimono, anime, matcha, and more.
- AARC’s Teen Mentorship Program – This year, the AARC brought together teens and mentors from across Austin for the first time. Drop by to hear more from program participants and check out their capstone project!
Doors open at 11am and performances will begin at 11:30. Food will be available from local vendors, including Bake ‘n Bite ATX, Lotus Creamery, Sharetea, Tsaocaa Austin, and Mama Kong Cambodian. There will also be other tables and activities provided by community organizations like Asian Family Support Services of Austin, Austin Community College, Austin Queer Asians, Indie Meme, Network of Asian American Organizations and more.
This is an indoor-outdoor event, so please dress accordingly. The AARC parking lot will only be available for ADA parking, but there will be shuttles from three nearby lots — 1520 Rutherford Lane, 8700 Cameron Road, and 8900 Cameron Road.
If you need more information, email us at [email protected].
Info HERE
Where: Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron Road Austin, TX 78754
ArtSmart: Celebrating Asian Dragons12:30-1:30 PM, ages 3 and up
Carnatic Violin Performance 1-2 PM, all ages welcome
Artmaking Portrait Workshop with Yamin Li 2-4 PM, ages 10 and up
The Bollywood Improv Show in partnership with The Hideout Theatre 3:30-4:30 PM, ages 10 and up
Plus mochi donuts from OMG Squee (while supplies last), Paper Lei Making with the Austin History Center, book displays, coloring pages, and curated goods by AANHPI brands in the APL shop.
Info HERE
Where: Austin Central Library, Austin Public Library, 710 West Cesar Chavez Street Austin, TX 78701
Where: Austin History Center, 810 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701
Are you a crafter? Do you wish you were a crafter? We’ll focus on a different craft every month; we’ll learn the basics, we’ll learn the ins and outs, and then we’ll let loose. Come learn with us!
Make a small stitched coaster using traditional Japanese Sashiko embroidery patterns. Fiber artist Juliann Krute will lead the group in a basic introduction to Sashiko, students will then learn to transfer the patterns to fabric and stitch the pattern using traditional methods. All supplies provided.
This is a ticketed event. Please arrive promptly as this program will start at 6:00 pm. If you do not arrive within 15 minutes of that time your seat will be given away to stand-by attendees. If you are unable to come please cancel your ticket. Thank you!
Ages 18+ only please.
Please register for this event HERE
Where: Menchaca Road Branch, Austin Public Library, 5500 Menchca Road Austin, TX 78745
Celebrating the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we will learn how to make a paper ti leaf lei together. The presentation starts with browsing through artifacts archived at the Austin History Center to introduce different ways of storytelling. Then, we will honor the Hawaiian storytelling tradition of hula and learn about the role of lei before making leis together.
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Windsor Park Branch, 5833 Westminster Dr.
Join Austin Sister Cities International (ASCI) for Business Protocol Workshops. High level overview of business etiquette and multicultural manners with a focus on Austin’s Sister Cities across the world. Presented in partnership with Austin Community College by Kevin A. Clark, Ph.D., Ph.D. (AM Thesis).
Discussion includes expectations around gift giving, dining, exchanging business cards, and more. This session is for persons who are thinking about doing business abroad, working with international companies , or have interactions with persons from other cultures with an opportunity for Q&A. These virtual sessions are free and open to the public.
- March 4th: Doing business with Austin (SXSW Edition) Replay available here
- May 24th: Asia
- July 12th: Europe
- Nov 8: Mexico and Latin America
Where: Zoom
Where: 5125 Convict Hill Rd Austin, TX 78749
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Yarborough Branch, 2200 Hancock Dr.
Celebrate the ancient art of papermaking, originated in China over 2,000 years ago!
Join Austin-based artist Kelly Chambliss as she leads participants through a 90 minute condensed paper-making workshop to make beautiful, custom papers of your own creation. All materials provided.
Intended for all ages including adults, teens, and kids 8 and up.
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Little Walnut Creek Branch, 835 W. Rundberg Ln.
Where: RSVP to see location
Recommended for pre-k through lower elementary school children and their caregivers.
For accessibility accommodations: 512-974-7400
Where: Southeast Branch, 5803 Nuckhols Crossing Rd.
The Austin Go Club is a chapter of the American Go Association (AGA), they host weekly meetings open to players of all levels. This workshop will delve into the essential skills and strategies of Go, no previous experience is required.
Free Admission and Parking
Where: AAPI Cultural Center, Portable Building 4, ACC-Northridge Campus