The energy of a crowd united in movement and joy is unlike any other. There’s no better way to channel that energy than during AANHPI Heritage Month in Boston.

What is AANHPI Heritage Month: Running all through the month of May, this time is about considering and remembering the key role Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs) have shared in the USA throughout our history and culture. This recognition across the nation began in 1977, additionally recognizing the work of Chinese immigrants on the transcontinental railroad. 

What is the Boston AAPI 5K: An annual event bringing folks of all abilities together to either run or walk along Carson Beach in Boston. This is a community focused event that “promotes health, unity and cultural diversity.” A portion of the proceeds goes to directly supporting organizations and non-profits in the Boston Chinatown area contributing to the social support of the community. 

OUR 2026 CAMPAIGN

This year we're asking our community to RUN WILD with us. Inspired by the Year of the Fire Horse, we're encouraging community members to be brave, to chase after their dreams, and to embrace the unknown.

We partnered with local artist Victoria Lai to design our logo and team t-shirts.

"When researching horse breeds across Asia, like the Yili horse, Hequ horse, and Sanhe horse, I kept coming back to the idea of endurance. These horses are known for traveling long distances, yet what stood out to me is that endurance is not about going nonstop, but about pacing, rest, and care along the way. I carried this into the AAPI 5K Run design, reflecting the energy of the Year of the Fire Horse, while also thinking about how we move together through this event, whether running or walking, as one community. This led me to look into other forms of movement like Choy Li Fut, where long sequences of motion require stamina, rhythm, and control, similar to how we move across a marathon by pacing ourselves and staying connected to those around us. The three horses move together to reflect this shared journey, grounded in support, care, and moving forward side by side." Victoria Lai, Boston Artist.

TESTIMONIALS

(Pictured left to right): Yun-Ting Lee, Billy Chen, Aubrey Tang, Sarah Chu at last year's AAPI 5K.

“We have been participating in the AAPI 5K for the past three years and with every passing year, the race grows and so does the excitement. Last year was no exception! There were ~700 people and the event raised over $9k! Although I don't identify as a runner, I do always run this 5K every year and never end up stopping (even though I really want to sometimes) largely due to the intense positive energy and support from fellow runners and AAPI 5K volunteers!” Aubrey Tang (she/her), Co-Founder and President of The Chinatown Project

Tell me more: Last year was our biggest team yet with almost 70 members. Although you can run/walk on your own, we’d love to see you move alongside us! Plus, we have some extra special team shirts for you that will make us all stand out in the crowd. Keep reading to see the amazing work Boston based artist Victoria put in for our Year of the Horse inspired merch. 

“Last year's AAPI 5K race was electric! It was uplifting to see how big of a turn out we had for this event. The energy in the air was supportive, encouraging and fun.” Ting (she/her), First Generation Immigrant, MA Resident

“The energy of last year’s race was truly unforgettable. There was a strong sense of pride, joy, and community from start to finish. Being surrounded by people celebrating AAPI culture while running through the city made the experience feel like more than just a race. The AAPI 5K is a celebration of identity, connection, and collective strength.” Sarah Chu (朱玉珊), Professional Latin ballroom dancer, technology consultant, and community activist born in the heart of Boston’s Chinatown

“I wanted to participate in the AAPI 5K and fundraise for The Chinatown Project (TCP) because I believe in the good of its mission. TCP has done so much for the Boston Chinatown community, especially during COVID..They continue to bring awareness to important resources in the area for the AAPI community, uplifts the Chinatown neighborhood through creative storytelling and amplifies through their social media presence, and advocates for the Chinatown residents against big corporations looking to gentrify their homes and businesses.” Ting (she/her), First Generation Immigrant, MA Resident

READY TO JOIN US?

Signing up is easy! Follow this registration link and search for team “The Chinatown Project.” Use code ChinatownProject at registration – the first 25 sign-ups receive a free team t-shirt. Questions? Send us an email to chinatownprojectqs@gmail.com.

About The Chinatown Project: We are an organization dedicated to documenting Boston Chinatown as it continues to evolve and our vision is to serve as an accessible, comprehensive digital archive for all things Chinatown. In the past five years, our organization has been dedicated to continually interviewing, documenting, and uplifting the stories and work of businesses, community leaders, residents, and organizations.

Thank you to our 2026 supporters: The Boston Hurricanes, Red Bull, Fly by Jing, LMNT, Lumentation