Call for Participation in the 2026 AANHPI Heritage Festival

by | Apr 17, 2026 | activities, announcements

Call for Participation in the 2026 AANHPI Heritage Festival, May 23, Boston Common

We look forward to celebrating this vibrant community festival with you!

⏰ Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026 11:30AM - 2:30PM
📍 Location: Parkman Bandstand @ Boston Common
We sincerely invite you to join us on May 23 to celebrate the 2026 AANHPI Heritage Festival!
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Hosted by the New England Chinese American Alliance (NECAA), the 2026 AANHPI Heritage Festival embraces the theme “Many Roots, One Future.” This theme honors the historic pursuit of equality and justice, while looking toward the present and the future. It calls on us not only to overcome barriers of language and culture, but also to break down prejudice, misunderstanding, and isolation. It encourages us to create platforms for cross-cultural exchange, and also to build bridges of trust, understanding, and unity among all communities.
Registration is now open for the festival’s four signature programs:
 
 
🏃 I. Passing the Torch: Youth Freedom Trail Running
This year’s Freedom Trail Run will be led by youth runners, symbolizing that the road to freedom in the future will increasingly be guided by the next generation of outstanding young leaders.
If you are interested in joining the Youth Running Team, please scan the QR code on the flyer below to register.

🎪 II. Cultural Roots: Next Generation Cultural Showcase
The full stage program at Boston Common will be presented by AAPI youth, offering a vibrant and diverse cultural celebration. NECAA remains committed to nurturing cultural confidence and identity among young people, and an entirely youth-led performance lineup is one of the festival’s most unique traditions.
If your organization would like to perform at the festival, please scan the QR code to register.

🎙 III. Voices of Inspiration: AAPI Youth Community Leader Speeches
We are proud to continue our special Youth Community Leader Speech segment, recognizing outstanding young individuals who have excelled in public service, civic engagement, and community leadership. Exceptional students from towns across Massachusetts will share their service experiences and personal journeys, inspiring more young people to contribute to their communities and embrace social responsibility.
Outstanding youth are warmly invited to apply to be a Youth Speaker by scanning the QR code to register.

🤝 IV. Collective Impact: Nonprofit Community Booths
The festival will provide free booth spaces for nonprofit organizations from across Massachusetts. We especially encourage youth-led nonprofits and organizations serving the community to participate and showcase their contributions in community building, cultural education, and public service. This initiative not only reflects the spirit of alliance, but also creates meaningful opportunities for cross-cultural and cross-organizational collaboration, highlighting the strength and unity of Massachusetts communities.
If your nonprofit organization would like to host a booth at the festival, please scan the QR code to register.

📣 We warmly invite you to witness every unforgettable moment with us!