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
Add a pop of color and fresh new pillows to your home with colorful and chic patterns from Sewing Down South’s new summer collection.
The North Charleston Arts Fest is a free five-day celebration that will include performances, activities, and exhibits at a variety of venues throughout the city.
The Summer Sizzle series is hosted by Charleston Wine + Food and features a dozen foodie events that stretch across the Holy City.
Firefly Distillery, North Charleston’s beloved distillery, celebrates its milestone with live music, local eats, and a nod to its iconic Sweet Tea Vodka.
See history first-hand during archaeological excavations at the Heyward-Washington House.
Two immersive art experiences bring the works of Van Gogh and Monet to life at Festival Hall this summer.