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Boasting one of the largest Chinatowns outside of Asia, San Francisco’s dynamic blend of traditions, cuisines, and heritage reflects a rich tapestry of Asian culture. Japantown, for example, is one of the last three remaining in the United States and the neighbourhood builds on the vibrant and influential Asian community that has shaped San Francisco’s cultural landscape, including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and Filipino residents, that distinguishes San Francisco from other North American cities. This makes celebrations for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPIH) Month, celebrated every year in May, particularly exciting. San Francisco’s Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebration promises an enriching hub of experiences.

San Francisco

On the heels of the annual Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival held recently comes other amazing celebrations in the city including the world’s largest showcase for new Asian American and Asian films — CAAMFest,from May 9th to 19th and the famous Heritage 5K run on May 4th which aims to explore over 14 historical AAPI landmarks along the route! Below we have outlined some of the key celebrations that take place in San Francisco’s prominent Chinatown and Japantown neighbourhoods, and across the city.
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Neighbourhoods

Neighbourhoods 

Neighbourhoods

One of the most iconic neighbourhoods in San Francisco is Chinatown, the first and oldest in North America. Steeped in history and tradition, Chinatown is a testament to Asian Heritage, filled with colourful lanterns and radiating spirits. Originally founded in 1849 during the Gold Rush but rebuilt after the 1906 earthquake, the compact neighborhood is the cultural heart of San Francisco’s Chinese community, the largest Asian ethnic group in the city. As a must-visit destination, Chinatown offers everything from historic landmarks such as Portsmouth Square, and the Great Star Theater to can’t-miss culinary delights such as dim sum at the Hang Ah Tea Room.
The oldest of three Japantowns in the U.S., San Francisco’s Japantown has tradition and innovation blend seamlessly, inviting visitors to explore historic landmarks like the Peace Pagoda and Japan Center. Here visitors can sink their teeth into handmade Udon at Udon Mugizo or savour the rich tonkotsu broth at Ramen Yamadaya. End the night with a slice of Blum’s coffee cake from Yasukochi’s Sweet Stop, leaving a sweet memory of cultural exploration here in Japantown.

Celebrations

AAPIH Month begins with the APA Heritage Awards & Reception on May 1st at Herbst Theatre. This prestigious, annual event marks this year’s commemorative month, themed “Moving Forward Together,” which honours 20 years of community connection and upliftment.
On May 4th, the Heritage 5K on May 4th will start in Japantown and culminate at Portsmouth Square in Chinatown. Along the route, explore over 14 historical AAPI landmarks along the route, each offering goodies, resources, and insights into their significance. This family-friendly event will offer entertainment, performances, activities, and local vendors.
Also on May 4th, visitors can feed their literary appetite at Kathryn Ma’s book discussion of “The Chinese Groove”at Koret Auditorium. Throughout the program, she will dive into themes of familial discord, cultural adaptation, and personal aspirations, all set against the backdrop of San Francisco’s rich AAPI immigrant experiences and cultural identity.
The world’s largest showcase for new Asian American and Asian films is CAAMFest from the Center of American Asian Media, which has been running since 1982. This festival features over 100 works annually, spotlighting the diverse experiences of Asian Americans and supporting independent filmmakers. The festival is scheduled from May 9th to 19th with a theme of “Lifting Truths in our Stories.”
Experience the awe-inspiring tradition of lion and dragon dances at the 3rd Annual Lion and Dragon Dance Competition on May 11th, followed by the award ceremony on May 18th. Spectators will become awe-struck at the skill, coordination, teamwork, and creativity of these ancient traditions, brought to life before their eyes.
For a special fusion of cultures, “Soy Vey: Shumai & Shalom” on May 17th at Yank Sing Rincon Center will showcase a collaboration with the Jewish Community Center of San Francisco and the Chinese Historical Society of America. This event offers a Pre-Fixe Dim Sum Menu and a thought-provoking panel discussion on the intersections of Chinese and Jewish heritages, two prominent communities and cultures in San Francisco.
Discover contemporary Asian American art at Edge on the Square Events on May 18th. This dynamic art hub in San Francisco Chinatown hosts bi-annual exhibitions, music events, and community gatherings, providing a platform for local artists to showcase their work and inspire visitors.
Ending AAPIH Month, a pop-up activation featuring Curtis Chin, author of “Everything I Learned, I Learned in a Chinese Restaurant,” will take place on May 25th. The event, hosted by the Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco, will explore Chin’s memoir, tracing his coming-of-age journey in 1980s Detroit against the backdrop of his family’s beloved Chinese restaurant.