Visit us at AAPI New Jersey’s fifth annual Lantern Festival for Justice and Unity on Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 6–10pm (rain date: May 31) when we illuminate the park with more than a thousand lanterns in honor of all the people who have helped light the way forward.
This beloved event brings together thousands of people from all walks of life to share in the AAPI community’s dreams of a more just, inclusive, and welcoming future. There will be family-friendly activities, food trucks, art installations, and community partners dotted throughout the park. Come explore our shared histories, build solidarity, and enjoy live music performances and inspiring speakers during this joyful, powerful evening for all ages.
The program from 6:30-7:30pm will feature special guest Liz Kari, daughter of Vilma Kari and president and founder of AAP(I Belong), and performances by Vanguard Theater Company, the UCC Pride Choir, and singer Kerala Kim. From 7:30-9:00pm, BARD, School of Rock, Matrix Jazz, and Jazz House Kids will perform at music stations scattered throughout the park.
Attendees will have the opportunity to experience an intricate paper-cut installation by Voyo Woo, live sketching by Ling Chen, an interactive public art project by Chanika Svetvilas, and installations on AAPI history and the Alien Enemies Act. AAPI New Jersey and community partners will also fill the park with many opportunities for children and adults alike to create, dream, share their views, and engage in social justice work.
Picnic on the lawn with delicious offerings from Ms. Fu's Yummy Food Truck, Angry Archie's, Lady Kettle Corn, The Thai Elephant Truck, Kampamilya, Twelve, Urban Leaf Cafe, Rain Bao, Guerriero Gelato, and Tunkas.
Admission is free with donations accepted in the form of lantern dedications at
https://givebutter.com/lanternfestival2025. Visit
https://aapinewjersey.org/events/lantern-festival-2025/ for event details.
About AAPI New Jersey
AAPI New Jersey is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that advocates for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and families across New Jersey. Our mission is to champion the well-being, rights, representation, histories, and cultures of New Jersey’s 1+ million Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.