Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is here – and organizations across Colorado are celebrating.
AAPI Heritage Month pays tribute to the contributions and influence of generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have – and continue to – enriched American history and culture.
Here’s where you can celebrate and find community.
AURORA
Asian American Hero of Colorado Awards Ceremony
Happy Living Center | 14015 E. Evans Ave.
Sunday, May 19 | 10 a.m. to noon
General admission $40 | Student admission $30 | Table for 8 $300 (Email [email protected] if you are interested in a table)
Each May, in honor of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Asian American Hero of Colorado awards ceremony honors an extraordinary group of local heroes. Hear their inspiring stories over a dim sum and sushi brunch.
Stanley Asian Heritage Night Market
Stanley Marketplace | 2501 Dallas St.
Saturday, May 18 | 2 to 8 p.m.
Free event
Indulge in a wide variety of food and snacks, shop for one-of-a-kind products from local makers and business owners and enjoy live performances that showcase AAPI culture.
DENVER
AAPI Art & Culture Fest
McNichols Civic Center Building | 144 W Colfax Ave.
Saturday, May 11 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Free event
The AAPI Culture Fest serves to foster connection, dialogue, and celebration. Join as we unite to honor the stories, struggles, and triumphs of the AAPI community. Together, we will reclaim our narratives, honor our heritage, and embrace the diversity that truly defines us.
201 Kimonos
McNichols Civic Center Building | 144 W Colfax Ave.
May 12 - Dec. 8 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | 7 days a week
Free event
Though “kimono” usually refers to a specific garment, the word itself means “something worn." This exhibit displays traditional T-shaped kimonos, as well as a variety of other traditional Japanese apparel, such as haori, a short kimono, and traveling coats produced from various cloth and fibers.
Celebrate AAPI Month with Denver Public Art
Various locations around the metro area
Free, self-guided tours or $5 guided tours (free for kinds 12 and under)
Denver Public Art has compiled a list and map of works by Asian-American and Pacific Islander artists that are on view across the city. Take a guided or self-guided tour and learn the story behind over 25 of the city's public works.
AANHPI Heritage Celebration
Auraria Campus, Lawrence St. Mall | 900 Auraria Parkway
Saturday, May 4 | 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Free event
The celebration will feature a variety of performances, including traditional dances by KALACOA and Nguyen Thieu Lion Dance, as well as musical performances by PADAYON – FACC, AJNAI, Tehani’s Halau, and Bhangra.
Attendees can also enjoy delicious food from vendors such as Nguyen Thieu, Pho Now, WE Chef, Kickin’ Chicken, The Captain Taco’s and Sushi, and The FACC.
In addition to the performances and food, the event will include a wide range of retail vendors offering unique products. There will also be arts and crafts sponsored by the Asian Chamber of Commerce and the Rocky Mountain AAPI Youth Coalition. Special events include the Karaoke Challenge sponsored by John Paul EXIT Realty and the Spring Roll-Off Battle sponsored by Littleton Big Life.
Japanese cultural heritage showcase
Sam Gary Branch Library | 2961 Roslyn St.
Saturday, May 11 | 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m
Free event
Join ARCINDA (The Art and Culture of Indonesia) for a dance performance and gamelan, an Indonesian percussion orchestra.
COLORADO SPRINGS
Colorado Springs Cultural Corridor banners
On display on Pikes Peak Avenue between Cascade Avenue. and Wahsatch Avenue
May 1-31
Free exhibit
For the month of May, The Pikes Peak Avenue Cultural Corridor banner program highlights 13 Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have helped shape Colorado history. Learn more about the figures and their influence in the state here.
Did we miss an event? Email [email protected] with event information.
