East and Southeast Asian Heritage Month

For the whole of September we celebrate East and South East Asian heritage, culture and history.

Every September, ESEA Heritage Month is a time to honour, celebrate and reflect on the rich and diverse cultures, histories and contributions of East and Southeast Asian communities across the UK. Lewisham is home to many residents from East and Southeast Asian backgrounds, and this month is an opportunity to recognise the vital role these communities play in shaping our borough.

This September, we will once again be supporting local events and activities that celebrate East and Southeast Asian heritage, culture and lived experience in all its forms, past, present and future.

The 2026 national theme, Evolving Threads, reflects how ESEA communities continue to weave together stories, practices and solidarities across generations and borders. It invites us to think about connection, continuity and change – how culture is carried, adapted and reimagined over time, and how communities build collective strength through shared experience.

Small grants

We are offering small grants of up to £1,000 to support people living or working in Lewisham to develop creative, cultural or community activities taking place during ESEA Heritage Month in September.

We welcome a wide range of ideas, including (but not limited to):

community gatherings or shared meals with a cultural focus
intergenerational projects bringing people together to share stories and experiences
workshops, talks or storytelling events
exhibitions or creative projects exploring identity, migration or history
cultural activities such as music, dance, art or craft
film screenings, performances or digital projects
community-led celebrations that bring people together

Whether you are exploring heritage, identity, memory or future possibilities, we want to support activities that centre ESEA voices and experiences and create opportunities for people to connect, learn and celebrate together.

Key dates

applications open: Friday 29 May 2026
deadline for applications: 11.59pm on Monday 22 June 2026
events take place: 1-30 September 2026

Apply for the East and South East Asian Heritage Month grant

Published on: 29/05/2026