The California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) and its supporting departments, invite you to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Through virtual and in-person events, CNRA departments, commissions and conservancies will be honoring AAPI leaders in the environmental field, who work to protect the environment for current and future generations and encourage others to become environmental stewards.
This year’s AAPI Heritage Month theme -- AAPI Ignite: Lighting the Path Forward -- draws inspiration from the Year of the Fire Horse, symbolizing strength, resilience and bold forward movement. Together, we honor the leadership, innovation and enduring contributions of AAPI communities whose energy and determination continue to shape a more just and sustainable future for California.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Title: Celebrate AAPI Month at China Camp State Park
Time: 11am-2pm
Location: China Camp State Park at 1898 North San Pedro Road, San Rafael
Description: Join us in celebrating AAPI Heritage Month in the historic village at China Camp State Park. Presented in partnership with California State Parks, this family-friendly event will feature vibrant lion dance performances, inspiring guest speakers, and hands-on crafts for kids. Enjoy a special guided walking tour of the historic village led by Milton Quan, one of the last remaining residents of China Camp Village and learn about the rich history and lasting legacy of this waterfront community. Don’t forget to enter our raffle for a chance to win fun prizes!
Cost: Parking is $5 at China Camp Village lot and the event is free
Link to reservations: https://friendsofchinacamp.org/event/aapi-asian-american-pacific-islander-month-celebration/
Monday, May 4, 2026
Title: AAPI Potluck, Dessert Contest and Karaoke at CNRA
Time: 11 am to 1 pm
Location: 20th Floor California Natural Resources Agency Headquarters Building
Description: This is an event for state staff. Join us for a potluck, dessert contest and karaoke social as we come together to celebrate culture, community and connection! Bring your favorite dish, dessert, drink, or treat inspired by Asian American & Pacific Islander traditions -- whether it’s a treasured family recipe or something new you’re excited to share. Consider entering our AAPI-inspired Dessert Contest for a chance to win prizes for 1st and 2nd place. After we enjoy delicious bites and great conversation, stay for karaoke and a little friendly competition.
Potluck and Contest Sign up: Click this link AAPI Potluck Sign Up to sign up for the potluck or to enter the contest.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Title: Mahjong Social and Buddha Bowls and Rolls Collab
Time: 11am to 1pm
Location: CNRA Agency 1st floor cafeteria at 715 P. Street
Description: The AAPI Month planning committee is hosting a lunchtime mixer at the CNRA cafeteria. We’re collaborating with Buddha Bowls and Rolls to offer a special menu item for the day and the committee will provide games. Order online to skip the line at buddhabowlsandrolls.com or bring your lunch and join us for good food, games and conversation. We will have Mahjong, playing cards, chess and more! Feel free to bring your favorite game. Looking forward to seeing you there!
Registration: None
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Webinar: Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month at Angel Island State Park
Time: 9:00 am to 10:00 am
Description: Honor the history and diversity of the Asian American Pacific Islander immigrants that passed through the Angel Island Immigration Station from 1910-1940. Join Angel Island State Park and the Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation LIVE at the historic detention barracks as we delve into their stories. Submit questions through a Q&A feature and we might just be able to answer it!
For more information: PORTScast Calendar - PORTS Program
Registration: Webinar Registration - Zoom
Friday, May 22, 2026
Title: Gyotaku Printing Workshop with artist Dwight Hwang
Time: 3:30-5 pm
Location: Crystal Cove State Park at 8671 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach
Description: Discover the art of gyotaku, a traditional Japanese fish-printing technique that originated in the mid-1800s, in this hands-on workshop led by California-based gyotaku artist and educator Dwight Hwang. Participants will create prints using fish and vegetables while exploring the connections between this cultural practice, Crystal Cove’s coastal environment and Japanese American history.
Registration: Registration is required at www.crystalcove.org. There will be a $10 fee per attendee and space is limited to 10 participants.
Title: AAPI Trailblazers: Bold Leaders Advocating for the Environment
Time: 12pm-1pm
Location: Virtual
Description: As national rhetoric targets immigrants, weakens voting access, questions birthright citizenship, and cuts support for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities, California stands for a different future by defending inclusion, opportunity, and respect for all. This AAPI Heritage Month, join Secretary Wade Crowfoot for a conversation honoring AAPI leaders advancing climate action, expanding access to nature, and helping build a stronger, more inclusive California for future generations.
Thursday, May 30, 2026
Title: Japanese American Historic District Tour at Crystal Cove State Park
Time: 1 pm to 2:30 pm
Location: Crystal Cove State Park Historic District, 8671 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach
Description: Join us for a guided tour that will highlight the history of Japanese Americans at Crystal Cove State Park. Led by Conservancy educators with support from State Parks Historian Diana Chang, this guided tour will highlight the Japanese American history of the Historic District, including stories of community, displacement, and resilience.
Asian American & Pacific Islander Month
About AAPI Heritage Month
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, vibrant cultures and invaluable contributions of AAPI communities to our nation’s past, present and future. The logo’s colors and floral elements reflect the diversity within AAPI cultures. The lotus flower, revered in Hinduism and Buddhism, symbolizes purity, enlightenment and resilience, and is commonly found in India, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. Cherry blossoms, celebrated across Asia, particularly in Japan, represent the fleeting beauty of life and are a cherished cultural symbol. Plumerias, considered sacred in parts of Southeast Asia, symbolize new beginnings and are often used to make leis throughout the Pacific Islands, including Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Hawai‘i, New Zealand, Tonga and the Cook Islands. Together, these symbols honor the depth and diversity of the AAPI experience.
