May is Asian Heritage Month where Canadians acknowledge, celebrate and showcase the contributions of Asian communities in Canada.
This year, the theme is “Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future: Amplifying Asian Canadian Legacy.” In honour of this month, we’ve compiled a list of four activities you can go to in Toronto to support Asian culture and heritage.
Welcome Market’s Asian Owned Market, May 3-5
Toronto’s Welcome Market has partnered with community organization Represent Asian Project to create a three-day Asian Owned Market. From May 3-5, visitors can shop from over 35 vendors selling vintage clothing, handmade goods and one-of-a-kind pieces. The event will also include drag performances that will highlight fellow Asian entrepreneurs and businesses in the community. The market is located at 938 Queen St. W. from 11 a.m to 6 p.m.
TD Music Celebrates Asian Heritage Month, May 7
TD Music is inviting music lovers for an evening of entertainment at Union Station to celebrate the month. Hosted by Alex Kade, the night will include some rhythms and blues, along with some fusion covers. There will also be free concerts and soulful performances, featuring Ethan Low and Gurtej. The free event is on May 7 from 4 to 6 p.m at Union Station’s West Wing.
Toronto Event Hub x Dzo: Asian Heritage Month Popup Market, May 26
Bring your family and friends to a pop-up market organized by the Toronto Event Hub and Dzô Viet Eatery. Here you can shop from local Asian vendors, enjoy deliciously authentic food and drinks, and take lots of photos at its photobooth. The event is free to attend and is happening at Dzô Viet Eatery from 11 a.m to 7 p.m on May 26.
Ponyo – Asian Heritage Month Family Screening, May 18
The Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema is showing a screening of Hayao Miyazaki’s classic fairytale Ponyo on May 18. The legendary Asian director recently won an Oscar for his latest film, The Boy and the Heron. Ponyo follows the story of a goldfish princess who swims away from home and longs to be human. She encounters a human boy named Sosuke who she forms a close bond with. Tickets are $15 each and the film starts at 1 p.m.
