Featured Image: the Asian Night Market at STACKT market, 28 Bathurst Street
May is Asian Heritage Month—a time to celebrate the cultures, stories, and contributions of Asian communities across Canada. The Entertainment District is marking the occasion through night markets, live performances, visual art, and more. Here are four events to check out this month:
Union Station Celebrates Asian Heritage Month – May 1
Union Station hosts a free cultural showcase in its West Wing on May 1 from 4–6PM. This pop-up event will feature live performances that highlight the diversity and richness of Pan-Asian traditions. It’s a great way to experience the arts during your commute or explore Union Station as a cultural destination.
BACKYARD Asian Night Market at stackt market – May 17
Experience an evening of culture and community at the BACKYARD Asian Night Market. From 4–10PM, shop over 50 Asian-owned vendors, savour authentic food and drink, and catch traditional performances and exclusive showcases. Dance into the night with live DJ sets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Free to attend, with line-skipping passes available here.
Other (please specify) by Victoria Day – On until May 25
Visit Open Studio to view Other (please specify), a powerful exhibition by artist Victoria Day exploring identity, diaspora, and belonging through screenprint and pixel collage. The work reflects Day’s lived experience as a mixed-race Korean Canadian and her reflections on cultural heritage. A hands-on workshop is also taking place on May 17, where participants can create their own artwork inspired by the exhibition.
Reel Asian’s Fire Horse Award Luncheon – May 26
Support Asian cinema at the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival’s annual Fire Horse Award Luncheon, taking place at the Shangri-La Toronto. This fundraising event celebrates Asian storytelling while raising vital support for year-round programming. Last year’s luncheon sold out—don’t miss the chance to toast industry leaders and champion Asian voices on screen.