September Arts Calendar 2026

Visual Arts

“Viet Joy Pop-Up” is a one day community art event featuring Vietnamese American artists with the theme of “Peace & Healing”. Free.  On Friday, October 16 at 10am. Reserve a spot at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vietjoy-art-pop-up-tickets-1997945902979. 1227 South Weller.  

“Here and Now: New Acquisitions for the King County Public Art Collection” is a group show highlighting recent acquisitions of Northwest artists to the collection. Congratulations to the many Asian Pacific American artists whose work was selected. Nak Bou, Sijae Byun, Kevin Furiya, Shruti Ghatak, Aaliya Gupta, Soo Hong, Devika Kapoor, Hyunjeong Lim, Lucy Liu, Saori Matsushita, Kelly Haejeung Paik, Suneeva Saldanha, June Sekiguchi, Stevie Shao. Miya Sukune, Jo Ellen Wang, Ko Kirk Yamahira and Junko Yamamoto. On view now through October 16., 2026. Reception on October 1, 2026 from 6 – 8pm. 101 Prefontaine Pl. S. Regular hours are M-F from 9am – 5pm. For details, try 4cultures.org.  

“What’s The Story? Contemporary Narratives of Home, Identity and Connection” is a group show of six NW artists whose work tells stories through the human figure. Includes work by Eric Chan, Lauren Iida and Samantha Yun Wall among others. On view through September 19, 2026. ArtXContemporary at 512 1st Ave. S. Go to artxcontemporary.com. 

“Agents of Change” is the title of a group show of 2026 Neddy Artist Awardees curated by Ellen Ito at the Benkhe Family Gallery. Includes work by Fumi Amano, Sangram Majumadar, Dana Blume, Jo Cosme, Francesca Lohmann, Cristina Martinez, Ralph Salazar and Lila Thomas. Open Wed. – Sat. From noon to 5pm. On view now through September 17, 2026. 1077 Lenora in Seattle. 

 “Threaded by Language” is a group show by diasporic artists who explore the loss of culture and language through weaving and textile arts. Includes work by Gabrielle Nirino, Claire Renault and Shin Yi Pai. August 8 – September 19, 2026.  At The Vestibule. 5919 – 15th Ave. NW.  

“Dance With Color” is the title of a show by Shima Star on view October 1 – 31, 2026. Gallery 110. 110 3rd Avenue South. Gallery110.com. 

“Sky of the Mind” is a group show featuring work by Soo Hong, Karen Kessler, Katina Winska and Teresa Getty. October 1 – 31, 2026. 312 South Washington. Seattle. Shiftgallery.org. 

 “Continuum: Celebrating the Artist Trust Fellowships” is a group show that presents the work of Artist Trust recipients from 2020-2026. On view from June 25 – October 31, 2026. Includes the work of Douglas Burgess, Priscilla Dobler Dzul, Renaldo Gil Zambrano, C. David’s Ingram, Janessa Johnston, Natalie Krick, Hyunjeong Lim, Jimmie Line, Hanako O’Leary, Mary Ann Peters, Yongzi Tang and Lila Thomas. Closing reception is on Thursday, September 24, 2026 from 5 – 7pm.To visit, email [email protected]. 

Chatwin Arts presents “Shifting Light”, a group exhibition reflections the change of the seasons from summer to fall. The work of Zhanpei Fang is included. September 3 -26, 2026.  323 1st Ave. S. Chatwinarts.com. 

“Masters of the Modern Northwest” is a group exhibition now on view through September 13, 2026. Includes work by Paul Horiuchi and George Tsutakawa. Woodside/Braseth Gallery. 1201 Western Ave. Woodsidebrasethgallery.com. 

 The Friends of Minidoka present a digital presentation of “Transcendent: The Life and Work of Artist Takuichi Fujii. Originally from Hiroshima, he came to Seattle and became one of the city’s recognized artists working in the 1930s. His work evolved from realism to the abstract and also documented the unjust incarceration of Japanese Americans during WWII. This project was developed as part of “Beyond the Barbed Wire: Japanese American stories of the Pacific Northwest.” To get the link, email [email protected]. 

Gallery No. 85 is a new Pioneer Square gallery dedicated to contemporary printmaking and works on paper by local and international artists. It builds upon the legacy established by Davidson Galleries. They represent a large number of print artists from Asia. Artists represented include Asumi Hayashi, Azumi Takeda, Chuo Soo Lee, Harumi Aoki, Keisuke Yamamoto, Koji Ikuta, Kumai Obata, Mariko Watanabe, Mio Asahi, Seiichi Hiroshima, Seiko Tachibana, Seoul Kim, Shigeki Tomura, Tetsuo Aoki and Zhizhong Zhang. 85 Yesler Way. 206-482-4957 or [email protected]. 

 “Reframing Seattle’s Southeast Asian Histories” is a group show that looks at Vietnamese, Laotian, Hmong and Cambodian refugees who arrived in the state in the 70s and 80’s. On view through September 20, 2026. Open daily from 10am – 5pm. Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) at 860 Terry Ave. N. In Seattle. 

The Wing Luke Museum has the following. “DISplace”, a group show on native Hawaiian arts and culture is on view through January 4, 2027. “Ten Thousand Things” curated by Shin Yu Pai looks at favorite artifacts by local Asian Americans. On view through Spring , 2027. Ongoing is YouthCan’s “The Sky is a Diasporic Space” up until the Spring of 2027.  “Lost & Found: Searching for Home” explores the diverse journeys of AANHPI artists seeking connection with their cultural homelands. On view through September 14, 2026. “New Years All Year Around” opens January 31 and remains on view through December, 2026. Permanent ongoing exhibits include the following. “Be Water, My Friend: The Teachings of Bruce Lee”, ”Cambodian Cultural Museum”, “Hometown Desi”, “Vietnam in the Rearview”, “I Am Filipino”, “Wing Luke & the Museum”, AND “Honoring Our Journey”, a showcase for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders.” 719 South King St. Register for this event at https://www.wingluke.org/auction. For details on the museum, go to wingluke.org or call 206-623-5124. 

KOBO is a unique shop of arts and crafts from Japan and items made locally by Northwest artists. KOBO at Higo offers the following activities. “Interior & Exterior” is the title of a presentation or work by Oaxaca-based ceramic artist Barbara Campbell. “Living With Glass” is a group show curated by Sayuri Fukuda and showcases contemporary glassworks of 22 artists from Seattle, Tacoma and Portland. On view through September 27, 2026. The 17th Simple Cup Show is coming up November 7 – December 24, 2026. Opening reception lottery to purchase cups is on November 7, 2026 from 1 – 4pm. Mark your calendars.Penny Cheuk-Low has more workshops. Sashiko Basics on September 19 and October 3, 2026 from 10am – 1pm. Details coming for more sashiko workshops for January through March 2027.. [email protected]. There are two shops in Seattle. KOBO at Higo is in the Chinatown/ID/Japantown area at 604 South Jackson and KOBO is on Capitol Hill at 814 East Roy. For details, try Koboseattle.com.  

Henry Art Gallery is on the University of Washington’s Seattle campus. East Coast installation artist Taishin Hsu will create a mural for the East Façade which will be on view from August 2026 – July 2027. Charlene Liu’s work for the Sculpture Court Mural is on view through August 2027. Free. Go to Henryart.org for details. 

Cannonball Arts is Seattle’s newest art collective in the old Bed Bath & Beyond location downtown. On view is “Monster, a virtual reality dark ride created by Brent Watanabe. 1930 – 3rd Avenue. Cannonballarts.com.  

The work of Paul Horiuchi is included with other Northwest masters at Christian Grevstad Gallery Space. Ongoing. 312 Occidental Ave. S. In Seattle’s Pioneer Square. Www.grevstad.com.  

LIC Gallery’s September group show includes work by Thuan Vu and others.908 Alaskan Way in Suite B. Seattle,WA. Https://licgallery.com.  

Lotus L. Kang is a Canadian-born, Brooklyn-based artist of Korean heritage. The Frye Art Museum presents the largest museum show to date of her work. The exhibit features two major installations together with a new body of works on paper. Developed in response to the museum’s architecture, Kang is conceiving two distinctly atmospheric installations. Kang works across photography and sculpture, creating site-responsive installations with sheets of industrial-sized film. On view through September 27, 2026. In an accompanying activity to this show entitled “unpoetry at the Frye”,  three performing artists will respond to Kang’s work. Set for September 17, 2026 at 6:30pm.They include dancer Noelle Chun, intermedia artist Maria Dolores A. Matienzo and guitarist Tom Scully.704 Terry. Try fryemuseum.org  

ACES – Artists Of Color Expo & Symposium is a BIPOC-led program produced by Shunpike.  With presentations, workshops, The Cypher, Gallery and Art Market. Free. October 9 – 11th, 2026 at 1000 Olive Way in Seattle. For details, try shunpike.org.  

Work by Xiaohan Wu is included in Columbia City Gallery’s Annual Juried Group Exhibit entitled “Unwavering Hope”  on view through October 4, 2026. 4864 Rainier Ave. S. In Seattle. Www.columbiacitygallery.com.  

Seattle Asian Art Museum has the following – On view through January 3, 2027, is “The Kondo Family: Storytellers in Clay” which brings together four artists across three generations of one of Japan’s most influential artistic families in ceramics. Ongoing at SAAM is “Boundless: Stories ofAsian Art.” 1400 Prospect St. in Volunteer Park. Ai Weiwei’s  “Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads” remains on view through October 27, 2027 and Qui Zhijie’s “Olympic Sculpture” remains on view through January 31, 2029 at SAM’s Olympic Sculpture Park down by Elliott Bay. “Ash-Glazed Ceramics from Korea and Japan” is ongoing at Seattle Art Museum.The SAM Magazine for October 2025 – January 2026 has an interview with Portland-based artist Samantha Yun Wall. Wall won the Betty Bowen Award for 2024 and will have a solo exhibition at SAM in February 2026. Her work navigates her struggle for belonging as a Black Korean immigrant woman by exploring duality and binaries in her black-and-white drawings. Her exhibit “What We Leave Behind” now on view through October 4, 2026 at Seattle Art Museum. Chanoyu: Tea Culture Celebration takes place on Second Saturdays from 3 – 4pm and Third Saturdays from 2 – 3pm at Seattle Art Museum.Every third Thursday from September to November at 6pm at Seattle Asian Art Museum includes talks by the museum’s conservators on various topics. September 17 brings Geneva Griswold, Objects Conservator  and Tanya Uyeda, Director of East Asian Painting Conservation who discuss “Preparing the Past: Medieval Japanese Buddhist Art.” October 15 has chief conservator Nick Dorman addressing the topic of “25 Years Behind the Art: Stories from Conservation at SAM.” November 19 has Assistant Objects Conservator Erin Fitterer taking about “Beneath the Surface: Conserving Schubert Sonata.” Go to Seattleartmuseum.org or visit Sam.org/events for details OR call 206-654-3210.  

Pacific Bonsai Museum has the following – “Bonsai United – 15 Traditions. 36 Practitioners. One World” through December 2027. 2515 south 336th St. in Federal Way, WA. PacificBonsaiMuseum.org.  

ROOTS Reimagined” is the opening group show of South Asian contemporary art at Viya Contemporary. 869 Ave. Square NE, Suite 17 in Bellevue,WA. Www.viyacontemporary.com  

Cascadia Art Museum has the following –  On view through September 13, 2026 is “Shadows of a Fleeting World”, a group show that explores pictorial photography and the Seattle Camera Club, founded by a core group of Japanese immigrant photographers in the 1920s by Dr. Kyo Koike and others.Opening September 23, 2026 are these two shows. “Zoe Dusanne:The Art of Seeing” is a look at the groundbreaking Afro-American art dealer and cultural advocate who shaped Seattle’s modern art scene. Includes work by Paul Horiuchi, B. L. Hyde, John Matsudaira and George Tsutakawa. Light of Remebrance:The Art of Shiro Miyazaki“ presents the first solo show of this powerful block print artist since his death in 1940. A good friend of George Tsutakawa and Kenjiro Nomura, his work echoed the political and economic turmoil of the 30s. After high school in Seattle, he worked the fields of the San Joaquin Valley, sending his artwork back to Seattle where he was often exhibited He died young of cancer. 190 Sunset Avenue S. #E in Edmonds. Cascadiaartmuseum.org. 

Asian Pacific Cultural Center’s new gallery has the following – Davao City Committee presents “Rooted in the Land”, a two-artist photography exhibition exploring Filipino culture, identity, roots and the artists’ personal perspectives and connections to the Philippines. Images by photographers Alexander Pomper and Celeste Noche. Curated by Kellis Paulette. Opening reception on September 5, 2026 at 1:30pm. On view through October 31, 2026.   4851 South Tacoma Way in Tacoma,WA. 253-383-3900 or email [email protected].

“Our Voices” is a group show exploring the cultures of Vietnamese Americans, Laotian Americans and Cambodian Americans in the northwest. On view Through January 17, 2027.Washington State History Museum at 1911 Pacific Avenue. 1-888-238-4375 or www.washingtonhistory.org.  

“Cloth, Paper, Stitches – A Selection of Artist’s Books from the Cynthia Sears Collection” is a group show set from July 3 – September 20, 2026. Among the many artists included is work by Mariko Jesse and Yoonmi Nam. Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. 550 Winslow Way E. On Bainbridge Island. Biartmuseum.org Or @bimuseum.of.art.   

“Emerging Radiance” is an augmented-reality interactive artwork that tells the story of Japanese American farmers of Bellevue created by Michelle Kumata and Tani Ikeda. On view through February 2027. 1111 – 110th Ave. NE in Bellevue,WA  

“Beyond the Horizon” is the title of a show of vibrant abstract landscapes by Selena Wei Chen on view from October 7 – November 1, 2026. Parkland Gallery at 130 Park Lane in Kirkland,WA. Www.parklanegallery.org.  

Whatcom Museum has a group show opening on February 6, 2026 entitled “From the Vault: Hard Edge/Soft Ground” and includes work by Paul Horiuchi. At two locations. Old City Hall at 121 Prospect St. and the Lightcatcher Building at 250 Flora St. Bellingham,WA www.whatcommuseum.org.   

(Re)Frame: Haub Family Collection of Western American Art” expands the narratives about art of the American West with four exhibitions with a range of perspectives including one on the Chinese American West. Curated by Lele Barnett. On view through September 5, 2027.  “Decades in the Making: 10 Years of SOLA Awareness” is a group show featuring mature women artists including the work of Malpena Chan, Ginny’s Ruffner, Norie Sato, Mary Coss, Caryn Friedlander and many others. On view through February 14, 2027.1701 Pacific Ave. in Tacoma. Go to tacomartmuseum.org.  

He Gong is part of a group show entitled “Where the World Breaks” on view through January 9, 2026. Sophia Grace Gallelry 2026 Main St. Suite B in Ferndale,WA. Enter through Leader Block Italian Restaurant. Www.sophiagracegallery.com.  

Portland-based artist Kanetaka Ikeda has a show entitled “Cosmic Trees” on view from September 30 – October 31, 2026 in the main gallery. Blackfish Gallery at 938 NW Everett. Go to blackfish.com for details.  

Portland Japanese Garden presents the following. “Woven Light – Illuminated Washi Sculptures of Seattle Artist Yuri Kinoshita” on view through September 14, 2026. 611 S.W. Kingston Ave. Portland, Oregon. 503-223-1321.  

The Japanese American Museum of Oregon presents the following. “Standing Justice – The Japanese Americans Shaping Oregon” on view through October 25, 2026. The Japanese American Museum of Oregon is located on 411 Flanders St. in Portland.  [email protected]  

Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art at Portland State University has the following show opening on August 28, 2026. “Amish Kapoor: Dissolving Margins, From the Collection of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation.” This is an extensive exhibition of the artist’s printmaking practice featuring over 150 artworks. 1855 Broadway. In Portland, Oregon. Pdx.edu/museum-of-art. 

Portland Art Museum presents the following – Shows on view until November 20, 2026 include the following – “Heaven and Earth: Chinese Art From the Collections”, “Kenji Nakahashi: Between Things” presents the work of this Japanese photographer, “Word in Flower: Arts of Buddhism” and “Cloud Dream of the Nine: Stories of a Painting” looks at a newly conserved Korean screen painting based on a popular 17th century novel. “Words in Flower – Arts of Buddhism.” “MAKERS: The Culture of Craft” explores the porous boundaries between art, craft, design and labor in Japan. “Kenji Nakahashi:Between Things” examines the work of this Japanese photographer who came to New York City in 1973 and looked at the relationship between everyday objects in his images. Tea bowls by contemporary Japanese ceramists are displayed alongside the photographs. Coming up is the traveling exhibition “The Stars We Do Not See: Australian Indigenous Art” on view September 5, 2026 – July 3, 2027. 1219 SW Park Ave. Portland, Oregon. 

The Portland Chinatown has the following –“Frances Maihwa Li: Symbols of the New Year” opens in the spring of 2026. Also on view is a historical exhibit on “Chinese Congregations of Portland Chinatown’s Past.” Permanent exhibit is “Beyond the Gate: A Tale of Portland’s Historic Chinatowns.” 127 NW Third. Try Portland Chinatown.org 

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art located on the University of Oregon campus in Eugene, Oregon has the followiing –  “Navigating Through Centuries: From Ancient to Global Contemporary in Korean Art” through April 11, 2027. Opening August 22 and remaining on view through October 10, 2027 is “High Drama: Japanese Prints of Theater, Heroes and History.”1430 Johnson Lane on campus. Try Jsma.uoregon.edu for details. 

“Reclaiming Discarded Materials” is a show by the duo of Midori Hirose and Slayer Rowan opening October 10, 2026 at Astoria Visual Arts at 959 Commercial St. in Astoria, Oregon. Astoriavisualarts.org.  

“DIS – displaced, dispersed, disposed” is an exhibition of work by seven participant artists in the Past Wrongs Future Choices Artists and Scholars in Residence program. Hosted by the University of Victoria, in conjunction with the Centre for Global Studies and Centre for Asian Pacific Initiatives, the PWFC program supports research into wartime Nikkei experiences across Allied countries. Includes works by Elisha Rei, Nao Ueda, Renya Egami, Rachel Kiyo Iwaasa, Brava Kilo, Michael Prior and Justine Seiji Waddell. DIS runs concurrently with a companion exhibition at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre in Burnaby on view through Feb. 27, 2027. “DIS” is on view from September 16 – December 5, 2026. 630 Yates St. in Victoria,CA. Uvic.ca/legacygalleries  And Centre.nikkeiplace.org/exhibits/dis/. 

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria has the following – “From Brush to Block: Paintings and prints by Imao Keinen and Kono Bairei until October 11, 2026. Opening on October 3, 2026 is “On the Road:Journeys through Japanese Woodblock Prints.” 1040 Moss St. Go to Aggie.ca. 

“Remains Nagasaki” is a show of photographs by Ken Mizukoshi at  James Bay Branch and The Dock Centre for Social Impact. Ongoing. Victoria Arts Council. Vicartscouncil.ca. 

The Audain Art Museum in Whistler has work by Takao Tanabe. “Vistas: Takao Tanabe’s Travel Paintings on view through September 21, 2026. “Takao Tanabe 100:Inside Passage” on view through October 19, 2026. 4350 Blackcomb Way. Audainartmuseum.com. 

The Chinese Canadian Museum in Vancouver BC’s Chinatown. Features three floors of exhibits that share and amplify Chinese Canadian history and heritage. 51 East Pender St. Chinese Canadian museum.ca. 

Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Center has the following –  On view through September 5, 2026 is “Return to Paueru Gai”, a retrospective exhibition celebrating 50 years of Powell Street Festival’s art and activism through various media. “DIS-displace, dispersed, disposed” is a group show that  has contemporary artists looking at the lasting influence of the Second World War on Nikkei communities globally. One part of this exhibit will be at NNMCC. On view September 19 – February 27, 2027.The second part of this exhibit will be at Legacy Gallery in Victoria from September 19 – December 5, 2027.On going is “TAIKEN: Generations of Resilence”, a group show on Japanese Canadian history and heritage. 6688 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby BC Canada. 

“Becoming: The Art of Gu Xiong” is on view through February 7, 2027. It highlights the multimedia artist’s 50-year career exploring migration, hybridity and globalization through his experience as a laborer during the Cultural Revolution, a a Canadian immigrant and as a professor at UBC. Ongoing is “The Work of Repair:Redress & Repatriation at the Museum of Vancouver which includes “The Suitcase Project” which asks the question, “What would you pack if you were forciably removed from your home today?” More than 80 fourth and fifth generation Japanese Canadians and Americans responded and captured by photographer Kayla Isomura. 1100 Chetnut St. in Vancouver BC, Canada. Museum of Vancouver.ca. 

Ha Chong-Hyun was a major figure in the contemporary art movement in South Korea known as Dansaekhwa. He will be the subject of a retrospective at the Asian Art Museum, San Francisco opening September 25, 2026. 200 Larkin St. For details on more, try exhibitions.asianart.org. 

“Afterlives: Japanese American Artists and the Postwar Era” is a group show that explores works by 20th century Japanese American artists, photographers and designers whose lives were disrupted by wartime Japanese American incarceration under Executive Order 9066. Organized by Clara Kim, Kris Karamatsu with Ariana Rizo. On view February 28 – September 2, 2027. 250 South Grand Avenue. Los Angeles,CA. www.moca.org. 

“Art of Manga” assembles more than 600 original works by artists like Chiba Tetsuya, Oda Eiichiro and Yoshinaga Fumi. An accompanying exhibit “Manga Before Manga: Japanese Art from the Collection” traces ten centuries worth of Japanese storytelling, Includes works by Utagawa and Hokusai. October 3, 2026 – January 21, 2027. Brooklyn Museum. 200 Eastern Parkway. Www.brooklynmuseum.org. 

“Noguchi to Asawa:Designing Postwar America” is a look at six Japanese American artists who shaped the look of modern America. Includes the work of Isamu Noguchi, Ruth Asawa, George Nakashima, Leo Amino, S. Neil Fujita, and Kay Sekimachi. On view September 20 – January 10, 2027. The Barnes Foundation 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia, PA. Www.barnesfoundation.org. 

Congratulations to Cheryll Leo Gwin who was awarded a 2026 SOLA (Support of Old Lady Artists) Award from Artist Trust. The awards are unrestricted awards of $5,000 given annually to women visual artists in Washington State, age 60 and older, who have dedicated 25 years or more to their artistic practice. 

Maya Lin’s first public artwork in Texas opens April 2027 at the University of Texas, Austin. Floating Landscape “is both a work of art and a place people can inhabit” says the Curator of Landmarks at the University’s public art program. 

Performing Arts

Washington Ensemble Theatre Presents “Blood/Sucker”, a play by Anamaria Guerzon directed by Sophia Franzella. A high school teacher tries to save his Asian American history class after a doxing campaign leaves his school scrambling. Meanwhile something lurks in the walls, hungry for blood. The play tackles the state of public education through Filipino mythology. A world premiere. At 12th Avenue Arts at 1620 – 12th Ave. Now playing through September 21, 2026. Tickets at Washington ensemble.org. 

Fremont Abbey presents Tibetan vocalist Yungchen Lhamo who performs with Rafe Pearlman on September 30, 2026 at 7:30pm. Woodlawn Hall at 7400 Woodlawn Avenue NE. Fremontabbey.org. 

ArtsWest & Yun Theatre have joined forces to present Lloyd Suh’s “The Chinese Lady”, a play about a very real Chinese woman who was presented in America at the turn of the century as an exotic curiosity. Stars Afong May and Sebastian Wang. Directed by Zenaida Rose Smith and Christie Zhao. 4711 California Avenue Southwest in West Seattle.. Preview on September 16. Regular run from September 17 – October 11, 2026. ArtsWest’s annual holiday show is “Snowed In” by Corinne Park-Buffelen and Mathew Wright with music by Alma David Taylor. What happens to a bunch of writers snowed in together in a cabin as they try to write the ultimate Christmas play? Runs November 28 – December 20, 2026. Go to www.artswest.org for more details. 

Violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan performs live and streaming with pianist Marina Alberto as part of the “Global Rhythms” series at Town Hall Seattle on September 25, 2026 at 7:30pm. TownhallSeattle.org. 

Asian Pacific Cultural Center hosts numerous events throughout the year for various Asian Pacific American groups. Taste of Asia Pacific featuring the Philippines. A monthly learn and taste culinary journey. Tickets at https://bit.lv/APCCTOAP26. Indonesian Day on September 12, 2026 from 11 – 4pm. All day Chu Seok Festival in Tacoma on September 19, 2026. All Day Chu Seok Festival in Gig Harbor at 3510 Grandview St. in Gig Harbor on September 26. All Day APPC Filipino Day celebrates October as Filipino American History Month with food and festivities on October 3. Taste of Asia Pacific featuring Rapa Nui (Easter Island) month learn and taste culinary journey on October 3 from 11am – 1pm. October 11 is India Day from 2 -n 5pm. October 17 is All Day Okinawa Day. November 7 from 11am – 1pm is “Taste of Asian Pacific” featuring Tokelau. November 19 is APCC’s 30th Anniversary all day. December 5 from 11 -n 1pm is Taste of Asia Pacific featuring Mongolia.Go to asianpacificculturalcenter.org for details. 

Some highlights from the prestigious Meany Center for the Performing Arts located on the Seattle UW campus include the following. The 2026/2027 season has been announced. Some highlights include the following. Grammy-winning composer Ricky Kei blends ancient mantras with global sounds in honor of Gandhi on October 2, 2026 at 8pm. Chopin Competition winner Bruce Liu performs piano classics by Ligeti, Beethoven, Ravel and Chopin on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 7:30pm. Indonesian pianist Janice Carissa plays a varied program of Bach, Granados, Allan, Ravel, Tanzil and Messiaen on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 7:30pm. Hung Dance from Taiwan brings contemporary dance blending with myth, Tai Chi and striking visual imagery. November 19 – 21, 2026 at 8pm. The pulse-pounding Taiko drumming of Japanese drumming ensemble KODO return to Seattle. January 29 – 30, 2027 at 7:30pm. Pianist Conrad Tao and tap dancer Caleb Teicher continue their dynamic collaboration with “Counterpoint II.” Thrill to music and movement from Bach, Schoenberg, Mozart and improvisations and originals by the duo. On Thursday, March 18, 2027 at 7: 30pm.On the grounds of Seattle’s University of Washington. 206-543-4880 or try [email protected]. 

“The History of Japanese Shakuhachi with Hanzaburo Araki” is set for Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 6pm. Araki is a descendant of a family that has played the shakuhachi for generations. He will introduce this musical tradition with a talk and musical demonstration. At Folio: The Seattle Athenaeum at 93 Pike St. #307. For details, go to folio Seattle.org. 206-402-4162. Kodo Araki IV performs again on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 8pm with fellow shakuhachi player Adam Robinson from New York City at Chapel Performance Space at the Good Shepherd Center located on the 4th floor at 4649 Sunnyside Avenue N. In the Wallingford area of Seattle. $5 – $25 dollar donation suggested. 

Stand up comic Leslie Liao performs at Emerald City Comedy Club from September 17 – 19, 2026. 210 Broadway E. In Seattle. 206-390-9152. 

Luc Ami, Yuen Young and Ty Quan are just some of the dozens of performers scheduled to perform at the Emerald City Kings Ball – A 3-Day Drag King Festival. Slated from September 17 – 19, 2026 at Broadway Performance Hall. Go to emeraldcitykingsball.com for details. 

Sangjaru is a Korean folk fusion band that merges traditional Korean music with the infectious rhythms of gypsy swing, funk, rock and improv. They perform on September 25, 2026 at 6pm at Rainier Arts Center. $25 admission. 3515 Alaska St. Go to rainierartscenter.org or Eventbrite for details. 

The 38th Edition of the Earshot Jazz Festival billed as Seattle’s Jazz Festival runs from October 7 – 25, 2026 at various venues around the Puget Sound.Featuring Lucian Ban & Matt Maneri, Bradford Marsalis, Dianne Reeves Celebrate John Coltrane, Julian Lage Quartet, Logan Richardson, Christian Sands, Warren Wolf, Sasha Berliner, Myra Melford and many others. Some Asian American performers in this festival include the following –  Sitarist Arjun K. Verma studied under Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. He plays with New York-based Danish pianist Nikolai Hess on Sunday, October 11, 2026 at 2pm at Broadway Performance Hall. DoYeon Kim plays gayagem (traditional Korean zither), pushing that ancient instrument with forays into jazz and free improvisation. She plays with  contemporary jazz trumpeter and UW Jazz instructor Cuong Vu in a special duo. On Monday, October 19 at 7:30pm. At the Floyd and Delores Jones Playhouse at UW. Seattle based flautist,composer and educator Leanna Keith leads the improvisation-centered ensemble, Kin of the Moon She shares the bill with former Seattlite, now New York-based trumpeter Jun Iida.  They perform at The Royal Room on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 7pm.For a complete schedule and tickets, go to earshot.org. 

Seattle Symphony welcomes Xian Zhang, their new Chinese woman conductor as they embark on a new season. “The Music of Studio Ghibli” with Seattle Symphiny with music by Joe Hisaishi takes place on Wed., September 16, 2026 at 7:30pm. Conducted by Wilbur Lin with Seattle singer/songwriter Tomo Nakayama narrating. Includes tunes from “My Neighbor Totoro”, “Kiki’s Delivery Service” and “Spirited Away.” The 2026/2027 season under Music Director Xian Zhang has an opening night concert with pianist Yuji Wang with Zhang at the baton on September 19, 2026. Xian conducts the orchestra with violinist James Ehnes in a program of Bruch and Berlioz September 24,26 & 27, 2026. A program entitled “Etudes and Devotions” takes place on October 16, 2026 with Conor Hanick on piano, Mari Yoshinaga on percussion, Helen Kim on violin, Emerson Millar on violin, Katie Liu on viola and Meeka Quan DiLorenzo on cello. Violinist Leila Josefowicz returns on November 5 & 7, 2026 playing a program of music by Unsuk Chin, Szymanowski and Stravinsky. Xian Zhang conducts the Symphony in a program of Tchaikovsky’s “First Piano Concerto” and “Zarathustra” with Tony Siri Yun on piano November 12, 14 & 15, 2026. Xian Zhang conducts the Symphony in a program of Mozart’s “Requiem” with soprano Mei Gui Zhang on November 19, 21 & 22,2026. January 28 & 30, 2027 finds Xian Zhang conducting a program of Haydn and Mozart with Emanuel Ax as piano soloist. Xian Zhang conducts the Symphony in a program of Tchaikovsky’s “Manfred” on February 4, 6 & 7, 2027. Xian Zhang conducts the Symphony in a program entitled “The Sounds of Spain” on February 11 & 13, 2027. Xian Zhang conducts the symphony in a program featuring “Scheherazade” on March 11 & 13, 2027. The popular Japanese pianist Hayato Sumino better known as “Cateen” is equally at home playing pop, jazz and classical music. He makes his Seattle debut on March 19, 2027 in a program of classical music and originals. As part of the Nature In Music Festival”, Xian Zhang conducts the Symphony in Grieg’s “Peer Gynt” with Helen Kim on violin set for April 8 & 10, 2027. Also part of the “Nature In Music Festival”, Xian Zhang conducts the Symphony in a program of Beethoven’s “Pastoral” with Gil Shaham on violin April 15, 17 & 18, 2027. The Festival concludes on April 22,24 & 25, 2027 with Zhang conducting the Symphony  with Gabriela Montero on piano on April 22, 24 & 25, 2027. Xian Zhang conducts the Symphony in a program of Brahms on June 17, 19 & 20, 2027 with Daniel Lozakovich on violin. On June 24 & 26, 2027, Xian Zhang conducts the Symphony in a program of Wagner’s “The Ring Without Words” with George Li on piano. Benaroya Hall is at 200 University St. 206-215-4747 or try Seattlesymphony.org. 

Here are a few highlights from the upcoming season of the Seattle Public Theater by Greenlake. “Neha & Neel” is on stage October 16 – November 8, 2026. By Ankita Raturi and directed by Agastya Kohli.  In an effort to pass her language and culture down to her teenage son, a mother takes her son on a road trip to witness a piece of Indian history for himself. An endearing comedy.The annual holiday tradition known as “The Flight Before  Xmas” by Maggie Lee is on stage November 20 – 29 AND December 23 – 26, 2026.A bunch of strangers stranded in an airport during the holidays find some collective joy within themselves.  Lucky Dang’s take on the Alice in Wonderland following the rabbit’s journey in a story entitled “Alice in Shadowland” takes the stage February 12 – 21, 2027. Northwest playwright Maggie Lee returns with  “The Ballad of the Unfallen”, a new play with music and movement about loyalty, connection and courage in the face of overwhelming odds. May 14 – June 6, 2027. 7312 West Greenlake Drive N. Www.seattlepublictheater.org. 

STG stages a variety of performing arts across the city on various stages throughout the year. Sitarist Niladri Kumaar performs a concert entitled “The Space Between the Notes” at the Moore Theatre on October 4, 2026 at 7:30pm. Comic Gaurav Kapoor plays the Moore on October 10, 2026 at 5pm. Comedian Kanan Gill brings his “Not This Again” tour to the Moore on October 31, 2026 at 7pm. Japanese Butoh dance group Sankai Juku return to Seattle with “KOSA” on November 17, 2026 at the Moore at 7:30pm. Chinese American comedian Ray Lau plays the Neptune on January 30, 2026 at 6:30 & 9pm. Bassist Stanley Clarke joins forces with pianist Hiromi to celebrate the music of Chick Corea. March 11, 2027 at 7:30pm. “YAMATO-The Drummers of Japan perform on April 3, 2027 at 8pm at the Moore. For full details, go to stgpresents. 

The local jazz club scene includes the following. Jazz musician Bob Antolin plays the Hilton Bellevue  every Wed. in July, 2026 starting at 6pm.  300 – 112th Ave.  

FESTAL Cultural Festival Series continues at Seattle Center’s Armory through November 2026. Free. Enjoy food, fun and cultural festivities at these events. Live Aloha Hawaiian Cultural Festival on September 13. Diwali:Lights of India on November 7. Seattle Hmong New Year on November 14, 2026.Go to Seattle center.com/festal for details. 

The Stranger’s 2026 Genius Award winners and honorable mentions have been announced. Winning in the “Food” category was chef Lisa Bi (Ba+Me and “Beo Beo”). Chu Minh Tofu was on the short list. 

Film and Video

The Stranger’s 2026 Genius Award winners and honorable mentions have been announced. Under the category of “{Film”, local filmmaker Bao Tran (“The Paper Tigers”) got a mention. 

“Pain and Peace with Rais Bhuiyan” presents a screening of documentary film “Pain and Peace” which brings together the voices of survivors and perpetrators of hate-fueled violence. Producer Bhuiyan will lead a discussion afterwards. September 15, 2026 at 7:30pm. Townhall Seattle. 1119 – 8th Ave. townhallseattle.org. 

The Northwest Film Forum on Seattle’s Capitol Hill screens the following. Local Sightings is the annual film festival that celebrates the work of filmmakers in the Pacific Northwest and screens from September 18 – 27, 2026. Looking at some of the shorts by NW Asian North American filmmakers in this festival, here are a few. Vancouver filmmaker Vivian Cheung’s “Paper Trail” captures a 2nd generation filmmaker’s attempt to rediscover her mother’s roots and refugee journey. Screens with the feature film “Dad Genes” on Saturday, September 26 at 4pm. Shea Forman’s “Diwata” screens as part of “Creature Feature”, a round up of shorts on September 23 at 7pm. A story of a Filipino grandmother haunted by the sea. “Diwata” has a second screening in another group of shorts entitled “The Female Gaze” on Saturday, September 26 at 7: 30 “Three Sisters” is an animated short that looks at three sisters who bicker over everything. Screens as part of a series of shorts entitled “Life Lines” screening on Friday, September 25 at 4:30pm. “Origin Story” is the title of a group of shorts screening on Wed., September 23 at 7:30pm. Some films in this series include the following. Vivian Cheung’s Paper trail” in which a Chinese Canadian female filmmaker traces her mother’s refugee roots. “UNBRAIDED-Unravel” by Xana Lenore looks at an adoptee filmmaker’s decision to invite her adoptive mother, birth mother and nanny to create a film together about ritual, relationship, separation, and reunion. Mia Watanabe’s “Hiroshi and Miss Fujitome” looks at a budding romance deterred by shyness. Kyle D’Odorico’s “Diamond Belly” tells the story of a dying grandfather who claims his stomach tumors aren’t tumors at all but the pilfered diamonds from a long forgotten heist in the old country. NWFF wraps up their year-long retrospective of the films of Japanese master Yasujiro Ozu with the following –  “The End of Summer” screens September 11, 12 & 13, 2026. It stars Setsuko Hara and explores the financial and personal trouble as of an aging family patriarch. “Equinox Flower” was the first Ozu film in color. A story about an old fashioned father and his modern daughter, it screens September 30 and October 1, 2026. Ozu’s last film “An Autumn Afternoon” screens October 9, 10 & 11, 2026 and concerns an elderly widower who encourages his only daughter to leave home and marry. 1515 – 12th Ave. 253-363-9932. Nwfilmforum.org. 

Grand Illusion Cinema (presently without a permanent brick and mortar location) presents the following. 50th anniversary of Nagisa Oshima’s erotic film “In the Realm of the Senses” screens in a 35mm print co-presented by SECS Fest. On Wed., September 2 & 3, 2026 at SIFF Film Center. Ringo Lam Ling-Tung’s 1992 feature “Full Contact” screens on Monday, September 14 at 7pm at NWFF. A man joins in a weapons heist to repay a friend’s gambling debt but chaos ensues. On Monday, September 28 at 7pm there is an Shu Lea Chiang double feature I.K.U. (Director’s cut) and UKI. Co-presented by SECS Fest. Monday, September 28, 2026 at 7pm at Northwest Film Forum. . For details,  go to [email protected]. 

The Beacon is an alternative film center showing rare films. Hiroshi Teshigahara’s 1966 adaptation of the Kobe Abe novel, “The Face of Another” starring Nakadai Tatsuya screens on September 11, 2026 at 4pm and again at 10pm. “Rebels of The Neon God” was Tai Ming-liang’s cinematic debut . Screens Sunday, September 27 at 5pm. 4405 Rainier Ave. S. Go to thebeacon.film for details. 

The SIFF cinema group of theaters screens the following. The South Korean sci-fi thriller “Hope” screens through September 16, 2026 at SIFF Cinema Downtown before moving to SIFF Uptown starting on September 18. There is a single screening of Stanley Kwan’s 1991 classic “Center Stage” which stars Maggie Cheung (In the Mood for Love) in a cinematic biography of real screen siren Ruan Lingyu. Screens Saturday, September 19 at 12:45pm at SIFF Uptown.“Filipinana” is a dark satire that looks at inequality and structural violence in the Philippines all observed with the confines of a golf course. Screens at SIFF Film Center September 25 – 27, 2026.A new restoration of Tsui Hark’s “Don’t Play With Fire” screens on September 29 & 30, 2026 at 7:15pm at SIFF Film Center. The “Open Road” series presents the 1999 film “Kikujiro” on October 5, 2026 at SIFF Film Center. Directed by Takeshi Kitano, the story revolves a 9 year old boy who forms a bond with a brash former Japanese gangster who guides the child on a summer quest to find the mother he never met. 167 Republican. For general information, go to SIFF.net for details. 

Taro Okamoto became the first Japanese performer to win the Cannes Film festival’s “Best Actress Prize” which she shared with Virginia Efira for their roles in Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s drama “All of a Sudden.” 

Taichi Kimura’s second film as a director entitled “Fujiko” won the top prize at the 28th edition of the Undine Far East Film Festival held in Undine, Italy. 

Kim Jong Kwan’s “The Table: Day and Night” has been selected as the opening film for the Busan International Film Festival. Set during the transition between summer to fall, the film depicts charming conversations shaped by four pairs of men and women who encounter each other in the same café. 

“After Dark” is a Japanese supernatural horror film directed by Dave Boyle &n actor/producer Kento Kaku. It hits theatres September 25, 2026 and stars Moeka Hoshi. 

Actor & rapper Riz Ahmed stars as Hamlet in a modern adaptation of Hamlet set within London’s elite South Asian community. Morfydd Clark stars as Ophelia. The rest of the cast includes Joe Alwyn and Sheba Chadha. Directed by Aneil Karina. Released by Vertical in North America.

The Venice International Film Festival recently announced their awards. Lee Chang-Dong’s “Possible Love” won the Grand Jury Prize. “The Pigeon Ring” by Shixin Tao & Yuki Zhang won the Venice Immersive Grand Prize. “Shumei:The Living Language of Kabuki” by Takashi Miike won the Best Film Prize of the Cinema & Arts Award. The film follows the high-profile, real-life 2022 succession ceremony of legendary performer Ichikawa Danjuro XIII Hakuen. Hirokazu Koreeda’s film “Look Back” won five collateral awards including the prestigious SIGNIS and Cinema SARA Awards. The film follows the story of two very different girls who are united through their passion for manga. “Nelson-san, Anaya Wa Hito Wo Koroshimashi Taka?” (Mr. Nelson, Did You Kill People?) by Shinya Tsukamoto about the anguish of a former U.S. Vietnam vet won the Leoncino d’Oro Award.  

Written and Spoken Arts

Seattle Arts & Lectures presents the following visiting authors. Actor/author Key Huy Quan reads from his memoir entitled “Never Say Die” on September 24, 2026. Korean American novelist Min Jin Lee (“Pachinko”) reads from her new novel entitled “American Hagwon” on November 14, 2026. For tickets and information, go to lectures.org. 

The Stranger’s 2026 Genius Awards and honorable mentions have been announced.  In “Literature” on the short list is poet/artist Jane Wong. And under the category of “Culture &n Community”, the CID’s own grief therapist Derek Dizon gets a mention for his space known as “A Resting Place.” 

C.A.C.A. & Storyboards NW present “The Archaeology of the Rock Springs/Chinatown and the 1885 Chinese Massacre”, a talk from Archaeologist Dr. Laura W. Ng. On Sunday October 25, 2026 at 12pm. Stroum Jewish Community Center. 3801 E. Mercer Way. Mercer Island, WA. Go to www.storyboardsnw.org. 

Serena Chopra and Jane Wong discuss “Dynamic Love: A Conversation on the Craft of Writing Family Stories” on October 1, 2026 at 7pm in the theater lobby at Hugo House 1634 – 11t Ave. Go to Hugo house.org. 

The Book Larder is a bookstore specializing in books on food, cooking demonstrations and author events. Clarissa Wei comes from Taiwan to celebrate her new book “Sitting the Month: Postpartum Recipes for Rest and Recovery” on Sunday, September 20, 2026 at 4:30pm. Author talk, Q&A and book signing. In “Mochitsuki”, cookbook author Kristen Morita explores the history, culture and tradition of mochi and mochiitsuki. Author talk and demo followed by a Q&A and booksigning. September 24,2026 at 6:30pm. 35.75 ticket includes a signed book. 4252 Fremont in Seattle. 206-397-4271 or book larder.com. 

Elliott Bay Book Company has a busy schedule of readings and book events. Some highlights including the following. Kazim Ali, writer,professor and founder of Nightboat Books discusses his latest book, “The Man in 119” on Monday, October 5, 2026 at 7pm with fellow poet  Serena Chopra. On October 8, 2026, Julie Lew reads from a new YA novel entitled “Death in Verse.” October 10, 2026 brings home Seattle-raised Paisley Rekdal, a former Utah Poet Laureate.She reads from her new book “Heritance” (Copper Canyon). On October 12, 2026, Seattle University professor and author Sonora Jha reads from her debut novel “Foreign: A Novel of Land and Longing.” This book was originally published only in India in 2013 but is now available in a U.S. edition. On October 20, Eric Liu discusses “Live Like A Citizen: 8 Ways to Change Your Mindset and Our Country.” On October 28, K-Ming Chang reads from her new novel “Bestiary”. October 29 is a homecoming for former Seattle writer Donna Miscolta who currently resides in Spain. She will discuss her latest novel entitled “Ofelia and Norma” with Karen Maeda Allman. 1521 – 10th Ave. on Seattle’s Capitol Hill. Go to www.elliottbaybook.com. 

Angela Duckworth, author of “Situated: Find the People and Places that Bring Out Your Best” addresses the topic of “Success without Burnout” on Friday, September 11, 2026 at 7:30pm. Journalist Anand Giridharadas discusses his new book “Man in the Mirror: Hope, Struggle, and Belonging in an American City” on October 7, 2026 at 7:30pm. Townhall Seattle. 1119 8th Avenue. Go to townhallseattle.org for details. 

The Seattle Chinatown Book Club meets every last Sunday of the month at 11am at Mam’s Bookstore at 608 Maynard Ave. S. In Seattle’s CID. For details, go to www.seattlechinatownid.com/local-events. 

Third Place Books has three locations in the Puget Sound. Here are some of their activities.”Storytime” features children’s writer Carmen Jao reading from “The Shape of Love” on Sunday, October 4, 2026 at 11am at the Seward Park location. Anne Liu Keller and guests present selections from “Mixed Roots”, a collection of essays exploring mixed identity on October 15, 2026 at 7pm at the Lake Forest location. Kawai Strong Washburn reads from her latest novel entitled “The Names of the New World” on Wed., October 21, 2026 at 7pm at the Lake Forest location. On Monday, November 2, 2026, Marie Lu reads from her new novel, “Mortal Things” at 7pm at the Lake Forest Park location. The Lake Forest Park store is at 17171 Bothell Way NE #A101 in Lake Forest Park, WA. 206-366-3333. The Ravenna store is at 6504 – 20th Ave. NE. in Seattle. 206-525-23. The Seward Park store is at 5041 Wilson Ave. S. In Seattle. 206-474-2200. For details, go to third place books.com. 

Local writer Daniel Tam-Claiborne guest-curates a series for the Seattle Public Library entitled “Diaspora & Belonging” that covers three diasporic Seattle communities – East African, Nordic and SE Asian. September 10, 2026 is the kickoff event at 6pm at Douglass Truth Branch on East Africa. On Thursday, October 15, 2026 at 6pm, the Nordic community is presented at the Ballard branch. The series concludes with a focus on the Southeast Asian community at the Little Saigon Creative on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 6pm. Eric Liu discusses his new book entitled “Live Like a Citizen: 8 Ways to Change Your Mindset and Our Country.” On Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 7pm at the Central Library’s Microsoft Auditorium. Jaipur Literature Festival Seattle has an opening talk by author Yann Martel on September 18, 2026 at 7pm at Seattle Central Library. The Jaipur Literature Festival continues September 18 – 20, 2026 at Townhall Seattle.  

Town Hall Seattle has the following speak events. Priya Parker discusses her new book “The Art of Fighting: The Transformative Power of Conflict” with Aaron Hurst. On Friday, September 18, 2026 at 7:30pm. The Jaipur Literary Festival Seattle 2026 comes to town and features South Asian writers and other international writers on September 19, 20 & 21, 2026 from 10am – 6pm. With readings, workshops and other literary activities. Seattle Arts & Lectures presents Ayad Akhtar reading from his new novel entitled “The Radiance” on Thursday, October 8, 2026 at 7:30pm. 1119 Eighth Ave. 

Renowned Japanese photographer Hiroshi Sugimoto is the guest editor for the fall 2026 issue of Aperture Magazine. Includes work and interview with Sugimoto.