Tracing its origins to a Congressional Resolution in 1977, Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Month was officially established in 1992 to honor people of AANHPI ancestry in the United States, their history and culture, and their many contributions to our country. To celebrate, Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) is hosting presentations, workshops, storytimes, crafts and more throughout the month, highlighting members of the AANHPI community and their heritage.
Check out a small sample of what we have planned at a library near you:
*Please note that dates/times of the following events are subject to change. Check the event listing for the latest information.
Learn To Play the Ukulele – Lorton Library – Tuesdays, May 7-21 (registration required)
Celebrate Hawaiian culture and learn to play the ukulele in this three-week series taught by a professional instructor from Potomac Music. Ukuleles will be provided for use in class.
AANHPI Stories: Ginger, Bok Choy, Soy Sauce, Oh My! – Burke Centre Library – Tuesday, May 7 (registration required)
Join cookbook author and Asian cooking expert Pat Tanumihardja as she demystifies the ingredients comprising popular Asian dishes like Pad Thai, Kung Pao chicken, Bulgogi and more.
Tangram Puzzling – Sherwood Regional Library – Monday, May 13 (registration required)
What can you make with only seven pieces? Design and play with your own tangram puzzles, a type of puzzle invented in China in the 3rd century.
Batik Workshop – Thomas Jefferson Library – Friday, May 17 (registration required)
Learn this Indonesian technique of wax-resist dyeing applied to the fabric to create exclusive patterns and designs. Participants will use this technique to create their own batik scarf.
Intergenerational Japanese Folding Fan – City of Fairfax Regional Library – Saturday, May 18
Embrace the diverse cultures, heritage and traditions inspired by AANHPI Heritage month as we introduce you to the history and art of the Japanese folding fan. Participants will then make and decorate your own paper folding fan.
Sticky Fingers Cooking – Dolley Madison Library – Friday, May 24 (registration required)
Experience an immersive experience where participants will learn to craft dishes and beverages, culminating in a shared meal and stimulating conversations on pertinent AANHPI/Jewish Heritage themes.
Pellet Drums – John Marshall Library – Saturday, May 25
Make some noise and learn about the pellet drum, a popular instrument used throughout East Asia. Then stick around to make one of your own with paper plates and beads
For a complete list of AANHPI-related events, visit bit.ly/FCPL_AANHPIHeritage.
You can also celebrate by participating in our AANHPI Genre Bingo Challenge on Beanstack! Learn more about the challenge and sign up to participate here.