February is Black History Month, a time to honor and recognize the significant contributions Black Americans have made throughout history. This year, there are plenty of events across metro Detroit to celebrate and immerse yourself in the culture and traditions that make up our vibrant community full of Black history. From museum exhibits featuring works by Black artists to tours that explore the history of the region, here is a list of engaging Black History Month events for you to attend.
- Solve a weekly Black History mystery at the Southfield Public Library with your family in February, starting Feb. 1. To participate, visit the youth desk in the library to pick up a clue sheet, then search the youth room to solve the mystery. Every group that solves the mystery will win a prize and can enter a drawing to win a year-long membership to the Detroit Zoo. Learn more.
- Support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by watching the film Freedom’s Path, opening in AMC and Regal theaters across the nation on Friday, Feb. 3. According to the film’s producer, Freedom’s Path “tells the story of a young union soldier who, after deserting from battle, discovers the real meaning of freedom through a young heroic black man. This is the first narrative feature film to center around free and autonomous African Americans living in the south during the Civil War.” Through a partnership with HBCU Go, a portion of every ticket sold will be donated to underfunded HBCUs. Buy tickets now.
- Learn more about the book “Negroes in Michigan History” by John Green during a virtual presentation and discussion hosted by the Detroit Public Library on Thursday, Feb. 8, 6 p.m. The Zoom presentation will cover the political, economic, social, and cultural history of Black Michiganders. Register now.
- Take a virtual tour of Detroit with City Institute on Thursday, Feb. 9, 6-7 p.m. During the tour, attendees will learn about the Ossian Sweet House, Birwood Wall, Black Bottom and Paradise Valley, redlining and restrictive covenants, and the Detroit Uprising of 1967. Learn more and register by making a donation.
- Celebrate Norwest Gallery’s fifth anniversary during its interactive exhibit exploring the “Expressions of Black Love” on Thursday, Feb. 9, 6-9 p.m. The exhibit will feature candid photographs from Jason Phillips, Reggie Singleton, Maisha Hughes, and more. Admission is donation-based. Learn more and register.
- Join Central Michigan University to celebrate Black History Month through fashion on Thursday, Feb. 9, 6-9 p.m. Creative work by current students and alumni will be showcased. At the end of the month, two of the emerging designers will be awarded a micro-grant from the donated funds raised during the event. Admission is free. Learn more and register.
- Tour the historic log cabin at Palmer Park in Detroit during the Winter LoverFest on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2-5 p.m. During the free, family-friendly event, enjoy live music, African dancing and drumming, artmaking, hot cocoa and treats, games and prizes, horse and carriage rides, winter sports, and more. Learn more and save the date.
- Join Detroit Book City for its 7th annual African American Book Expo 2023 on Saturday, Feb. 18, 12:30-5 p.m. Attendees will have the chance to meet independent authors of adult and children’s books from across the country and purchase autographed books. The first 100 adults to attend will get free swag bags, and all kids will get free selfies with Detroit Book City’s mascot dog, cultural coloring sheets, and goodie bags. Attendance is free with an Eventbrite ticket. Register now.
- Celebrate the achievements of Black independent writers during a Black History Book Fair in Wayne, MI, on Saturday, Feb. 25, from noon to 5 p.m. During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to meet and hear from local authors about their stories. Admission is free. Learn more and register.
- Join Pastry Chef Leah on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2-4 p.m., to decorate Black History Month-themed cookies at Carhartt Workshop. Attendees will learn how to create different hair textures and a variety of piping techniques. No experience is required. One ticket includes four nut-free cookies to decorate, light refreshments, and more. Learn more and register for $25.
- Enjoy a Black Bottom Jazz Showcase featuring a tribute to Anita O’Day, Take 5, and Satin Doll Revue on Saturday, Feb. 25, 5-10:30 p.m. General admission is $45, and premier seating is $60. A VIP backstage pass with photos and premier seating included is $100. Learn more about the performers and buy tickets on Eventbrite.
Written by Krishaun Burns, Let’s Detroit
