by Angela La Fon

Created on: January 15, 2010

February is recognized as Black History Month in the United States and in honor of Black History Month there are special events across the country to celebrate and share black history.

There are many events that are appropriate for children and families as well as adult oriented activities.  Many Black History Month events are open to the public and many are free.  So whether you’re looking for an evening of adult entertainment as an individual or a couple, for a friend’s night out, a family event or something educational for your children or homeschool group, here’s a great list of places to check out and what you are likely to find.

College and University Black History Month Events:

Colleges and Universities are by far the best place to find the greatest number and greatest variety of events celebrating Black History Month.  From large Universities to small, private colleges there are an abundance of opportunities, many of which are open to the public and often free or reasonable priced. 

Here’s what you can expect to find:

Plays written and performed by African American artists

Poetry readings by African American poets

Concerts by African American musicians

Movies followed by open discussions

Art Museum Black History Month Events:

Many art museums will feature shows of African American and Africana art, as well special lecture series.

Children’s Museums Black History Month Events:

Many children’s museums will feature special workshops this month that will include books, crafts and foods to engage children with hands-on learning about black history.  Children’s museums most often use very developmentally appropriate activities and are a great place to pick up techniques and ideas for sharing black history, or any topic with young children.

Historic Homes and Historical Museums:

You may be surprised by the number of small but interesting historic homes or historical museums with in driving distance of your home.  We recently had a chance to tour Edan Kraal, the former home of poet Anne Spencer which is still furnished with many of Spencer’s personal belongings. There are large treasures of information and inspiration that can be gleaned from small places you may have driven by and yet never knew existed.  

Public Libraries:

Many public libraries will host book and poetry readings by African American authors.  Some will also host special story hours for children featuring children’s books by African American authors.  At the very least, your public library is a great place to check out books, movies and music to help you celebrate Black History month at home.

Colleges, universities, art museums, history museums, children’s museums and public libraries will all have web pages where you can quickly search for details on Black History Month events in your area to open your mind for learning and open your heart for celebrating.

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