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 Enjoy: Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month in Evanston
It’s May already! This month we are featuring Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. It is a time when we celebrate the culture, arts and contribution of these communities. Envelop yourself in this rich culture by supporting Evanston's wide variety of Asian American-owned small businesses, which include unique stores, restaurants, arts, and more.
Take advantage of Asian American Heritage Restaurant Week, Roots to Table, to try something new! This event is happening May 23 through May 31, with a wide array of food choices to titillate your taste buds. These participating restaurants make up the lineup.
Continue celebrating Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) this month: Join us in recognizing and celebrating the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of AAPI communities throughout our nation. Check out some fun, family-friendly events planned throughout the month.
The Umbrella Arts Festival is a celebration of Asian American history, culture and art.
The umbrella symbolizes the Asian American diaspora which includes a diversity of ethnicities from over 40 Asian, South Asian, Southeast Asian and Pacific Island countries around the world, and is inclusive of the many intersections of identities that exist in our communities.
The festival is free and for all ages!
 Did someone say Night Market? Yep, its that time of year!
Now entering its 7th year, Downtown Evanston's Thursday Night Markets showcase artists, makers, and retailers from the regional community. The 2025 market dates are June 5, July 10, August 7, and September 4, from 5 to 8 p.m. on the south plaza at Fountain Square.
 News Flash: AUX opened its doors!
The Aux, a small business hub centered on wellness and racial equity and located at 2223 Washington St., is an exciting project long in the making, that had its grand opening on May 10. The building represents 16,500 sq. ft. and includes space for up to 12 tenant businesses.
 It's Biking Season Y'all!
Mack's Bike & Goods Semi-Annual Market Market & Bike Swap is happening this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 2948 Central Street. Come find some great used bicycle treasures from vendors!
If you have an old bike that you are no longer using, they are taking in donation bikes for Evanston's Mike Moyer who refurbishes bikes for those in need in Evanston.
 Howard Street Community Clean-Up May 18
Join the Howard Street Business Association on Sun., May 18 from 1 to 5 p.m. to clean-up Howard Street—small actions make a big impact! Volunteers of all ages welcome and should meet in the parking lot of Palmhouse at 619 Howard St. Supplies and refreshments will be provided.
Stay after the clean-up for music, mingling, and thank you goodie bags from local businesses!
See below for upcoming events and start planning your weekends! You can find the full calendar of events on the Enjoy Evanston website.
Downtown Evanston
Main-Dempster Mile
West End
Enjoy Evanston
Have a upcoming event?
Help us add to our calendar! We encourage you to submit all your upcoming events through our website.
Please review the following submission guidelines:
- Only public events may be listed
- Cannot be solely retail in nature
- Cannot be solely religious or political in nature
- Cannot be solely fundraisers or networking events
- Should be leisure time or recreational activities
Event eligibility is also evaluated on a case-by-case basis. At this time, we are only able to accept event listings in English.
 Meet Maggie Peng of Pink & Tan
In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we’re spotlighting Pink and Tan, located at 604 Dempster St. in the Main-Dempster Mile.
The shop offers beautiful, unique and well made objects, carefully curated by makers across the globe. The offer a selection of home goods, decor, furnishings, and gifts designed to bring beauty, intention, and comfort to your daily life
Can you share some of the history of the Pink & Tan?
MP: Pink & Tan was born from a deeply personal moment of transition.
At the start of the pandemic, my family and I made an unexpected move and found ourselves living in a nearly empty apartment in Evanston. As an architect and interior designer, I was driven to create beauty and comfort with the few things we had—seeking out small, intentional ways to make our space feel like home. As we became more rooted here, I began seeking out special pieces—handmade, small-batch, and vintage items that carried a sense of history, care, and individuality. Each object I brought into our home added warmth and character, helping to shape a space that felt both personal and peaceful.
That process of collecting—of curating meaningful objects that enrich daily life—is at the heart of Pink & Tan. Our store reflects that same philosophy: a thoughtful blend of artisanal craftsmanship, timeless design, and quiet beauty meant to be lived with and loved.
What can folks expect if they come to your store?
MP: We offer everyday essentials, art and décor, pantry goods, and children’s items—all curated through the lens of thoughtful design. Whether it’s a hand-thrown ceramic bowl, a small-batch pantry staple, or a beautifully made toy, each piece is selected for its function, form, and the story it tells. We believe that the objects you live with every day should be as inspiring as they are useful.
How do you set yourself apart from other retail shops?
MP: Our customers often tell us that Pink & Tan brings the world of design to Evanston—and we’re proud of the role we play in our community. There’s a deep thoughtfulness in how we add value to their lives. Many of our customers are regulars we know by name. We love helping them select pieces for their homes, often reviewing photos of their spaces and offering personalized design guidance. We’re also honored to help them find meaningful gifts for partners, friends, and family. It’s not uncommon to hear that we’re the go-to shop for special gifts, because our customers know they’ll leave with something just right—something beautiful, unique, and deeply considered.
How does the Main-Dempster Mile support your business?
MP: We feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such inspiring small businesses in our little corner of Evanston. There’s a real sense of camaraderie here—we have a running chat with our neighboring shop owners, and that everyday connection makes us feel truly supported. We’ve loved participating and hosting some of the local events here that not only strengthen our community ties but also bring more people through our doors to discover what makes this neighborhood so special.
Any specials or services (or a fun fact) you’d like people to be aware of?
MP: Our gift registry isn’t just for weddings—it’s for any celebration worth remembering. Whether you’re marking a milestone birthday, a new home, or a meaningful life event, you can create a personalized registry filled with thoughtfully selected pieces. It’s a beautiful way for your loved ones to give you something you truly want and will cherish.
And if you’re gifting or purchasing one of our vases, we’re happy to make it extra special with a custom floral bouquet, designed in-house to complement the piece and the moment.
What is your favorite thing about running a business in Evanston?
MP: At our core, we are a people business. My favorite part of this journey has been building a small but mighty team—creative, multi-talented individuals who bring heart and thoughtfulness to everything we do. We genuinely love our customers; they are the reason we exist. When someone walks into our store and leaves feeling inspired, seen, or simply delighted by the experience, that’s our greatest reward.
 What do YOU enjoy about Evanston?
With ten unique business districts, there is something for everyone to enjoy! We want to hear about your faves. Tell us about your favorite places for health and fitness, your favorite store or art gallery to explore, or your favorite place to eat! Send us an email about your favorite spots at hello@enjoyevanston.com.
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