May Celebrations, Heritage & Community Events

As we welcome warmer weather and longer days, May also brings a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the cultures, traditions and communities that shape our lives.

At Verity, we believe that financial well-being and community well-being go hand in hand. That’s why we recognize and uplift observances like Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month, Jewish American Heritage Month and World Day for Cultural Diversity—not just as moments of celebration, but as reminders of the vibrant diversity and shared resilience that fuel thriving communities.

This month, we invite you to explore local events, reflect on rich cultural histories, and connect with the people and traditions that make our communities strong.

Month-long Observances & Celebrations

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month
This month celebrates the cultures, histories, and contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. Explore stories, performances, and virtual exhibits through the Asian Pacific American Heritage site.

Ways to celebrate locally:

• Asian Arts & Heritage Festival – Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA)
  A month-long series of events spotlighting AANHPI art and culture, culminating in a community festival on May 31 at the Filipino American Community Hall.
  View calendar and details →
• SAM Talks: Asia Society Seattle Series – Thursday, May 15
  A special conversation at the Seattle Art Museum featuring artist Zheng Chongbin and musician Daniel Pak on the intersections of Asian identity, art, and music.
  More info →
• Visit Seattle’s AANHPI Heritage Guide
  Explore Seattle AANHPI-owned business, more exhibits and events and ways to celebrate throughout the city.
  Explore local highlights →

Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM)
JAHM honors the Jewish American experience and the contributions of Jewish individuals to our shared history and culture. It’s also an opportunity to support Jewish neighbors and communities by amplifying their stories in schools, neighborhoods, and civic spaces.
Learn more and explore educational resources at the Jewish American Heritage Month website or through the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle.

Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental health matters. This observance helps raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourages open conversations around mental wellness. Get involved through storytelling, advocacy, or accessing resources through Mental Health America or NAMI Washington.

Take action:

• NAMIWalks Washington – Saturday, May 31
  Seattle’s Magnuson Park, 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
  Registration opens at 8 a.m. | Walk begins at 9 a.m. | Ends at 12 p.m.
  5K route
  Register or donate →

Events & Day Observances

BonsaiFEST! – Saturday, May 10 & Sunday, May 11
10 AM – 4 PM PT (both days) | Free Admission

Celebrate World Bonsai Day and Mother’s Day weekend at the Pacific Bonsai Museum in Federal way —one of only two museums in the U.S. solely dedicated to the art of bonsai.

Explore a remarkable collection of 150 trees from across the globe and enjoy live bonsai-making demonstrations, guided tours, games, food trucks, pop-up shopping —all surrounded by the serenity and artistry of this unique botanical tradition. 
Event details →

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia  – Wednesday, May 17 
This day uplifts LGBTQIA+ communities around the globe and affirms every person’s right to be who they are and love who they love. Learn more at may17.org.

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development – Sunday, May 21
Designated by the United Nations, this day underscores the importance of cultural diversity and dialogue in building peace and sustainable development.

The cultural sector drives global growth and provides millions of jobs, yet it remains underfunded and undervalued. UNESCO’s Declaration for Culture calls for stronger protections for artists, heritage, and digital equity.
Learn more →

We recognize that this list is not exhaustive and may not reflect every meaningful cultural or community event. If you have a suggestion for future spotlights, we’d love to hear from you at feedback@veritycu.com.

At Verity, we believe diversity and inclusion are essential to building vibrant, equitable communities—today and for generations to come.

Let’s make May meaningful together!