AAI Spring Gala 2026

Celebrate Asian Arts Initiative’s Spring Gala—an evening of delicious food, incredible live performances, and awards honoring the continuum of creative leadership in Philadelphia’s vibrant Chinatown and beyond!

The Spring Gala features an award ceremony honoring community leaders, Ellen Somekawa (Executive Director of FACTS and a former Executive Director of AAU) and Harry Leong (Center Director at the Chinese Christian Church & Center and President of the Philadelphia Suns.) Plus, we are proud to present a special ceremony honoring our own Youth Leadership Initiative's Class of 2026.

Curated dinner by Chef Elijah Milligan will showcase his new ambitious restaurant’s, Lovechild, global fusion and wood-fired flavors ahead of its grand opening. Guests will also enjoy the signature cocktail artistry of Kampar, the James Beard Award–nominated bar helmed by GM and Beverage Director Sam Pritchard. Additionally, the VIP cocktail reception will be prepared by Chef Kurt Evans of Black Dragon Takeout, the nationally heralded, first-of-its-kind restaurant in West Philadelphia that expertly blends Chinese American cuisine with Black American soul food.

Finally, the Gala will present captivating live performances throughout the night featuring the iconic Philadelphia Suns Lion Dance Team, award-winning poet Michelle Myers, and veteran pianist Sumi Tonooka.

Join us for the beautiful and meaningful night of engaging with our community members, creatives, and civic leaders and celebrate over 30 years of building community through the power of arts. Proceeds from the Gala support AAI’s youth education programs, uplifting creative voices and building lasting connections across Philadelphia.

*Attire: Festive Cocktail

Our Online Silent Auction open NOW through Sunday, May 17 at noon. Click here to browse our items and start bidding!

Special thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, Urban Outfitters

And to our generous sponsors, including PECO, NAAAP (National Association of Asian American Professionals), the Philadelphia Phillies, DIGSAU, Asian Bank, and Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia

COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS: Philadelphia Young Playwrights, Sutro Li

IN-KIND SUPPORTERS: 31st and Wharton, Aiyah Jewelry, Alex Nguyen Photography, Amelia Martin Flowers, Barnes Foundation, Calder Gardens, Colette Fu, DJ Yolo Ono, Dottie's Donuts, Echo Volla, Elixr Coffee, Fireball Printing, Fork, FORTUNE, Lauren Susteric, Longwood Gardens, Love Me Do Photography, Miki Palchik, Mitsuko Brooks, Monarch Yoga, Natasha Cohen-Carroll Videography, Philadelphia Distilling, Phila Sail, Phillies, Pinwheel Provisions Local Market + Table, Rosaful Garden, Sagar Kamath, Trails of Indochina, Trouvé Travel Co, Tyrus Wong, Velvet Whip, Wood Street Pizza, YOWIE Hotel & Shop

Sponsor our Gala! Explore opportunities for premium visibility for your brand while helping us reach our goal!

• Sponsorship Opportunities
• Online Silent Auction Donation Form
• About the Gala + Community Impact