Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures from all over the world. It’s home to millions of people from diverse cultural backgrounds, countries, religions, and ways of life. One of the most essential communities that shape the city’s identity is the Asian collective, which is celebrated this month. The following events and spots in L.A. are perfect for joining in the celebration!
AAPILA Marketplace
This annual celebration highlights baked goods, savory bites, packaged treats, and merchandise by local AAPI chefs and creatives. Guests can enjoy live music, community activities, and a vibrant atmosphere. Programming includes a mini mart with CPG startups, a kids’ corner with Mandarin Arts Studio, author signings, and mahjong tutorials.
📆 When: Sunday, May 18, 2025. 10AM-4PM
📍 Location: 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Be Bright Coffee
The Melrose café has launched its popular AAPI Menu, featuring drinks inspired by Asian American and Pacific Islander flavors. Returning favorites include the Misugaru Latte and the Ca Phe Trung, along with a new addition, the Pandan Ube Matcha Latte. This iced matcha is made with housemade pandan syrup, choice of milk, and topped with ube cold foam.
📍 Location: 7311 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Academy Museum
Now on view at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures through January 10, 2027, Director’s Inspiration: Bong Joon Ho is the first exhibition dedicated to the Oscar-winning filmmaker. It explores his creative process, filmography, and the influences behind his work.
📍 Location: LACMA West, 6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Makoto Taiko
Founded in 1999, Makoto Taiko brings people together through the art of taiko with concerts open to all. This year’s concert, themed Hishō (“flight” or “soaring”), celebrates taiko’s energy and expressive movement. Guest artists include Eri Uchida, known for her graceful Katsugi style, and GRAMMY-recognized taiko artist Shoji Kameda.
📍 Location: 244 San Pedro St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
LACMA
Realms of the Dharma: Buddhist Art Across Asia, offers a wide-ranging look at Buddhism and its artistic traditions, from its origins in India to its spread across Southeast Asia, the Himalayas, and East Asia. Featuring 180 masterpieces, the exhibition explores key Buddhist concepts through striking sculptures, paintings, and ritual objects.
📆 When: Opening on May 11, 2025
📍 Location: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Compound AAPI Art Night Market
Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with an Art Night Market. This free event honors the rich history, vibrant culture, and creativity of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. It will feature Long Beach’s Milliken High School AAPI students showcasing their art works along with a special appearance by Khmer and Laotian first generation artist Olivia Sawai showcasing her art in action. There will also be art workshops, Open Mic Night, and Happy Hour specials all night and more.
📆 When: May. 22, 2025 from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
📍 Location: Compound (1395 Coronado, Long Beach, CA)