Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in and around Charleston

From panel discussions to a night market, the month-long series honors Asian American and Pacific Islander identity, culture, and creativity across Charleston.

A panel discussion is taking place in a well-lit room with a modern aesthetic. Three speakers are seated on a couch and chairs in front of a red backdrop that reads “CHS AAPI COLLECTIVE.” One woman is speaking into a microphone while others, including the audience, listen attentively. A floral arrangement sits on a pedestal in front of the backdrop.

Don’t miss this series from Charleston AAPI Collective and stay tuned for future events.

Photo by Amos Adams

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, and the CHS AAPI Collective is celebrating with a series of events this month designed to honor and uplift the community. Mark your calendars and join in.

“Where Do I Belong?” Kickoff Event | Today, May 1 | 5:30–7 p.m. | The Porter Room at Holy City Brewing, North Charleston | $5+ | Moderated by Anna Chen, a diverse panel will discuss themes of identity, diversity, and belonging through an AAPI lens. Pro tip: You can enjoy light hors d’oeuvres during a pre-panel mingling hour.

Movie Night | Wednesday, May 7 | 6–9 p.m. | King BBQ, North Charleston | Free entry | Don’t miss an outdoor movie night under the stars celebrating AAPI stories and voices. Stay tuned for the movie title.

Anna Chen Exhibit | Saturday, May 10 | 5–9 p.m. | HED HI Studio | Free entry | Visit Chen’s exhibit, “Are We There Yet,” featuring vibrant wall collages accompanied by music.

Book Club & Watercolor Workshop | Wednesday, May 14 | 6 p.m. | Big Gurl Shop | $35 | Get creative with watercolor and collage led by Chen. The workshop includes a discussion inspired by “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner.

Sarah’s Dumps x Sonny Sisan Workshop | Thursday, May 22 | 6–8 p.m. | Stolon Food Lab, North Charleston | Tickets dropping soon | Learn to make floral arrangements and a traditional Korean dish at this hands-on workshop.

CHS AAPI Night Market | Saturday, May 31 | 6–9 p.m. | Storehouse Eight + Nine Courtyard, North Charleston | Price of purchase | Wrap up the month at a vibrant night market featuring Asian-owned food vendors, creatives, and businesses.

Follow @aapi_chs on Instagram to stay updated on events and discover more ways to connect with the AAPI community throughout the year.

Events
We’re highlighting the best kid-friendly activities that Charleston, SC has to offer — complete with art classes, animal encounters, and outdoor fun.
Mena Mark Hanna shares what’s new, what’s exciting, and why Spoleto Festival USA 2025 is a can’t-miss.
Sponsored
This Palmetto Community Care fundraiser is making its return to Charleston after a three-year hiatus — and this year, tickets are all-inclusive.
From jazz and opera to dance and physical theater, here’s one can’t-miss Spoleto Festival USA event from each genre to help you plan your festival lineup.
From outdoor concerts and art exhibitions to sand sculpting and potlucks, explore some of the best regional and local talent with these can’t-miss Piccolo Spoleto free events running May 23 through June 8.
The Moonlight Martini Trail highlights six downtown restaurants + bars that feature signature martinis — if you try them all, you can earn deals + a chance to win a stay at The Loutrel.