February is Black History Month, a great time to celebrate the amazing contributions of Black Americans who’ve shaped our world. We’ve put together a list of family-friendly events happening around New York all month long.
At a Glance:
- Special storytimes at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, City Point BKLYN, and various libraries.
- Historical reenactments at New York Historical and at St. Paul’s Church.
- Live performances with the Hula Hoopin’ Queen, the Harlem Globetrotters, SKIN Dance Company, and more.
- Interactive programs at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, the Staten Island Children’s Museum, and more.
- A moving exhibition at Bethany Arts Community.
- Participate in craft activities at Wave Hill, the Long Island Children’s Museum, and more.
Black History Month Events in Your Area
Just click on your region below to see what’s going on near you:
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Manhattan
Stories Take the Stage
Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W 83rd St., Upper West Side
Feb. 1 – 8, Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am – 5 pm
Ages 8 and younger
$18
Books leap off the page, and heroes come to life with the kick off Black History Month featuring creativity and storytelling, and a special read alouds for World Read Aloud Day!
Black History Month: Family Program
Tenement Museum, 103 Orchard St., Lower East Side
Sunday, Feb. 8, 10 – 11:30 am
Ages 5 – 12
$15; $7.50 for members; $10 for children
Honor Black History Month! Families can take a mini–tour of the tenement home of Joseph and Rachel Moore to explore daily life for Black New Yorkers in the 1860s. Participants will also enjoy a delicious treat and share family stories inspired by the Moores!
Living History: Prove it on Ma Rainey
The New York Historical, 170 Central Park West, Upper West Side
Saturday, Feb. 21, noon – 2 pm
All ages
$6-$24; free for children younger than 5
Learn about Ma Rainey, the woman referred to as the Mother of the Blues. As an artist, she was able to connect with diverse audiences across 1920’s America through her songwriting, authentic self-expression, deep-throated voice, and captivating stage presence. Participate in playing records of her music and looking at items she would have interacted with.
Living History: Clothing of Enslaved Women and Reclaiming Black Humanity
The New York Historical, 170 Central Park West, Upper West Side
Feb. 28 – March 1, Saturday and Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm
All ages
$6-$24; free for children younger than 5
Did you know that most women and girls from all backgrounds, including those enslaved, in 18th century New York had their clothes handmade by a tradesperson called a Mantuamaker? Join clothing historian and Mantuamaker Brooke Wellborn as she pieces, sews, and fits a reimagined 18th dress, designed by Cheyney McKnight, for this year’s Pinkster Stroll over the course of two days from beginning to end. Living Historian Naomi of @NaomiLovesHistory on Instagram and TikTok, and Ms. Cheyney will speak with visitors about what clothing enslaved women were wearing, and how clothing played a role in agency in the past and present.
The Hula Hoopin’ Queen
Theatre Row, 410 W 42nd St., Midtown
Feb. 28 – March 15, Saturdays and Sundays, 11 am – noon and 2:30 – 3:30 pm
Ages 5 and older
Tickets start at $29.50
New York City Children’s Theater’s The Hula Hoopin’ Queen is a joyful 50-minute performance for young audiences. Set on a vibrant Harlem block, the story follows 10-year-old Kameeka as she chases her dream of becoming the Hula Hoopin’ Queen of 139th Street. When preparations for Miz Adline’s birthday shift her plans, Kameeka discovers that caring for family and community can be the greatest victory of all. Filled with catchy music, Harlem pride, and a grand hula-hooping finale, this lively production celebrates family, friendship, and finding creative ways to shine.
Bronx
Family Art Project: Digging into the Soil Science of George Washington Carver
Wave Hill, 675 W 252nd St., Riverdale
Jan 31 – Feb. 1, Saturday and Sunday, 10 am – 1 pm
All ages
$4-$10
In honor of Black History Month, learn about George Washington Carver, a black scientist who faced many challenges. Find out how soil affects the food we eat by making colorful still-life creations using some of the same things Carver studied, like dirt and dried beans. At 11:30 am families can enjoy a themed storytime program.
STEAM Time: Black History Month Off the Pages
Clason’s Point Library, 1215 Morrison Ave., Soundview
Feb. 3 – 24, Tuesdays, 3 – 4 pm
Ages 6 – 12
Free
Join staff from the Clason’s Point Library for an exciting, hands-on program dedicated to Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. Enjoy an activity from titles in the nonfiction collection. Afterward, explore recommended titles!
Family Storytime: Celebrate Black History Month
Allerton Library, 2740 Barnes Ave., Pelham Gardens
Feb. 4 and Feb. 25, Wednesdays, 11 – 11:30 am
Ages 2 – 5
Free
Join the Library for songs, rhymes, and favorite read-aloud books in this storytime that’s fun for the whole family. On 2/4, listen to a reading of I am Enough by Grace Byers. For young children of all ages; ideal for caregivers with multiple-aged children. Storytime helps strengthen early literacy skills, socialization, and bonding between adults and their children. Stay and play after!
Craft Corner: Black History Month Button Making
Morrisania Library, 610 East 169th St., Morrisania
Friday, Feb. 6, 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Ages 3 – 12
Free
Children are invited to unleash their creativity as they design and create their own custom buttons inspired by Black history, culture, and influential figures. This hands-on program encourages children to learn about and express pride in the rich heritage of Black communities, resulting in a wearable piece of art they can take home.
Black History Month: Nature Poetry
Crotona Nature Center in Crotona Park, 1702 Crotona Ave., Crotona Park East
Saturday, Feb. 21, 11 am – noon
All ages
Free
Celebrate Black artistic and intellectual history on a poetry and nature hike through Crotona Park! Attendees will be able to enjoy the great outdoors while experiencing the nature poetry of some of the greatest African-American poets, such as Maya Angelou and Langston Hughes.
Brooklyn
Aviva and Friends Presents: Little Kids Create The Block
Adams Street Library, 9 Adams St., DUMBO
Tuesday, Feb. 3, 4 – 4:45 pm
Ages 2 – 5
Free
Utilizing The Block, with words by poet Langston Hughes and illustrations from artist Romare Bearden’s iconic eponymous collage, participants will create their own collages exploring and illustrating the blocks and communities where they live.
Kids Create: Black History Month Craft – Painting In the Style of Bill Traylor
Jamaica Bay Library, 9727 Seaview Ave., Jamaica Bay
Thursday, Feb. 5, 4 – 5 pm
Ages 5 – 12
Free
Celebrate the contributions and history of Black Americans by creating art inspired by influential African American folk artist Bill Traylor. Born into slavery and never formally educated, Traylor’s self-taught art is celebrated by museums worldwide for his minimalist and powerful storytelling style.
Feeding Freedom: Cook in Power Celebration
Museum of Food and Drink, 55 Water St., Williamsburg
Saturday, Feb. 7, 10 – 11:30 am & 1 – 3 pm
All ages
$5 Kids & Families Program; $18 Young Adults & Teens Program
With separate programs for kids and teens, participants will explore how food traditions connect to family, culture, and everyday life.
The Snowy Day- Black History Month Literacy Event
City Point BKLYN, 445 Albee Square W., Downtown Brooklyn
Saturday, Feb. 7, 11 am – 2 pm
Ages 5 and younger
Free
The Snowy Day: Literacy Village is a family-centered community celebration hosted by Brown Babies n’ Books in honor of Black History Month. The event is intentionally designed to bring Black families together to celebrate voices, stories, and cultural legacy through children’s literacy. Inspired by Ezra Jack Keats’ classic book The Snowy Day, the experience centers Black storytelling, representation, and joy while creating an interactive literacy space for children and caregivers. Families will enjoy live storytimes, sensory play stations, music, and community engagement, all aimed at uplifting Black authors, culture, and early childhood literacy in a warm, welcoming environment.
Black History Month Celebration Storytime with Delta Sigma Theta
Paerdegat Library, 850 E. 59th St., East Flatbush
Saturday, Feb. 7, 12:30 – 1:30 pm
Ages 3 – 4
Free
Enjoy a special storytime with the East Kings County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. to celebrate Black History! Families will enjoy picture books, fun crafts, and games that help kids learn about and appreciate African American history and culture in an engaging, hands-on way.
Black History Month Movies @ the Library: The Princess and the Frog
Park Slope Library, 431 6th Ave., Park Slope
Friday, Feb. 13, 3:30 – 5:30 pm
All ages
Free
Celebrate Black History Month and watch The Princess and the Frog! A modern twist on the classic The Princess and the Frog set in New Orleans, LA! Tiana dreams of owning her own restaurant. When she meets a frog prince who desperately wants to be human again, a fateful kiss leads them both on a hilarious adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana
Black Future Festival
Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights
Feb. 15 – 21, Daily, 10 am – 5 pm
Ages 10 and younger
$15
Brooklyn’s boldest celebration of Black imagination, invention, and joy, shaped by Black creators. Make art, learn dances, create music, and envision the future that celebrates Black culture and the African Diaspora. Presented with Kendra J. Ross and STooPS.
Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour
Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Ave., Prospect Heights
Sunday, Feb. 15, 3 pm
All ages
Tickets start at $47
What started with Curly, Meadowlark, Wilt, and Geese continues on today with Hammer, Torch, Bulldog, Cheese, Jet, Wham, Thunder, TNT, just to name a few! Taking inspiration from the fun-loving & awe-inspiring players of the past, today’s Harlem Globetrotters stars are ready to wow you on the court and in the crowd! Be there as the players dazzle, dunk, and hype the stands as they take on the Washington Generals with high-flying, all-out fun from start to finish.
Kids Create: Black History Month
Golden Age of Brooklyn ADC, 9305 Ave. L, Canarsie
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 3 – 4 pm
Ages 6 – 12
Free
Join the Canarsie Library to create something together in honor of Black History Month.
African Dancing & Folktales Workshop
Red Hook Interim Library, 362 Van Brunt St., Red Hook
Friday, Feb. 20, 11 – 11:45 am
Ages 3 and younger
Free
Join this very special Storytime. Participants become the storytellers in a series of African folktales as a facilitator guides them through an African Dance workshop, accompanied by live percussion music.
Black History Month: Brooklyn and the Abolitionist Movement
Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 1, 334 Furman St., DUMBO
Sunday, Feb. 22, 1 – 2:30 pm
All ages
Free
Join the Urban Park Rangers on a walk discussing Brooklyn’s significant history to the abolitionist movement in the United States.
Queens
Hands On History: Read Black History
King Manor Museum, 150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Saturday, Feb. 7, 1 – 4 pm
All ages
Free
Kick off the 2026 season with a collaboration to celebrate Black History Month. Stop by to learn more about Black figures in American history and revolutions around the world. This event will have reading circles, access to the learning library, and the chance to create art inspired by the work of Alma Thomas.
Black History Month: Traditional West African Dance for Children with Atiya Clarke
Queens Public Library – St. Albans, 191-05 Linden Blvd., St. Albans
Tuesday, Feb. 10, 4 – 5 pm
Ages 6 – 11
Free
Through rhythms and songs, children will be able to learn and experience the traditions of West African culture with dance and movement!
Black History Month: Discover Black History with Games, Coloring, & Heroes
South Jamaica Library, 108-41 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica
Thursday, Feb. 12, 4:30 – 5:30 pm
Ages 6 – 11
Free
Honor the past, rejoice in today, and inspire the future with Black History Month activity books. Full of fun games, coloring pages, and profiles on prominent black historical figures, these activity books will help kids learn more about why this important month is celebrated.
S.T.E.A.M Saturday: Pop-Up LED Cards
Lewis Latimer House, 34-41 137th St., Flushing
Saturday, Feb. 14, noon – 4 pm
All ages
Free
Join educators from the Lewis Latimer House to celebrate Lewis Latimer’s contributions to electrical lighting by creating pop-up cards to share with friends and family, just in time for Valentine’s Day! Participants will combine LEDs with various paper engineering techniques to build and illuminate their own cards.
West African Dance Workshops
Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning (JCAL), 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Feb. 17–18, Tuesday and Wednesday, 7 pm
All ages
$20
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant and energetic world of West African dance! These West African Dance Workshops will be led by acclaimed dance companies Kofago Dance Ensemble and FANIKE! African Dance Troupe. These workshops are open to all levels.
Black History Month: Create Your Own Masterpiece with Artist Juan Ortega
Flushing Library, 41-17 Main St., Flushing
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2 – 3 pm
Ages 6– 11
Free
Celebrate Black History by creating art with Juan Ortega! Children, youth and families are invited to paint their very own masterpiece honoring 100 years of Black History.
Freezin’ Season: Frederick Douglass’ Birthday
King Manor Museum, 150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Friday, Feb. 20, 1 – 4 pm
All ages
Free
Frederick Douglass chose to celebrate his birthday on February 14th. At King Manor, celebrate his birthday a few days late, but celebrate nonetheless! Take park in a reading circle and make your own bookmark inspired by Douglass. As he once said, “Once you learn to read, you will forever be free.”
Black History Month: Mardi Gras with Donald Harrison Jr.
Central Library, Queens Public Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica
Sunday, Feb. 22, 1 – 4 pm
All ages
Free
Honor Black History Month with jazz great, the Big Chief Donald Harrison Jr.! Get ready for a party with music, words, and costumes to celebrate Mardi Gras. Hosted by Ralph McDaniels.
Staten Island
4th Annual Black History Month Painting with Soul
Saturday, Feb. 7, 2 – 5 pm
Snug Harbor Cultural Center, 1000 Richmond Terrace
All ages
Free
Join an amazing event celebrating Black History Month through art! This free family creative event features Gregory Taylor Drum Circle, Praise Dancers, entertainment and raffles. Unleash your creativity and connect with the community as you paint with your heart and soul.
Gates of Equality: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Story
Friday, Feb. 20, 2 – 3 pm
Port Richmond Library, 75 Bennett Street
Ages 8+
Free
Learn about and celebrate Black History Month with this special event dedicated to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This one-person show features an intimate introduction to this important historical figure.
Feel the Sounds of the Islands with Caribbean Vibe
Friday, Feb. 20, 4 – 5 pm
Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace
All ages
Free with $8 museum admission
Caribbean Vibe Steel Drum Band’s performers provide fun festive music for all ages, sharing and elevating the joy of an instrument whose origin is rooted in the history of the Afro-Trinidadian struggle for freedom.
at Snug Harbor. Image courtesy of SKIN Dance Company.
SKIN Dance Company Celebrates Black History Month
Saturday, Feb. 21, 2-3:30 pm
Staten Island Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace
All ages
$25 adults; $10 for children ages 5+; kids under 5 free
Advanced registration required
Join a powerful afternoon of movement, memory, and legacy as SKIN Dance Company honors Black History Month through Afrocentric choreography, ancestral storytelling, and cosmic celebration. Featuring excerpts from Josephine’s Cotton: The Musical, this performance pays tribute to the spirit of Josephine Baker—artist, activist, and icon of liberation.
Long Island
Game Changers- Black History Month
Main Branch, Patchogue-Medford Library, 54-60 E. Main St., Patchogue
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 9:30 am – 9 pm
All ages
Free
Honor Black Athletes and Olympians with games and activities featuring inspiring athletes throughout history.
Black History Month: Space Explorers
Connetquot River State Park Preserve, 4090 Sunrise Highway, Oakdale
Saturday, Feb. 7, 5:45 – 8 pm
Ages 6 and older
$4
Advanced registration required
Learn about the history of Black men and women astronomers and astronauts who shaped our understanding of the cosmos! Stargazing is weather permitting.
Black History Month: Art by Basquiat
Nissequogue River State Park Main Office, 4 Cliff Drive, Kings Park
Sunday, Feb. 15, 10:30 am – noon
Ages 8 and older
$4
Advanced registration required
Basquiat painted many self-portraits. Through these works, he explored his identity as an African-American man. His paintings were also tributes to African American historical figures, jazz musicians, sports personalities, and writers. Together, use his art as inspiration to create your own self-portrait.
AdvoKids: Black History Month – Long Island Black Whalers
Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
Sunday, Feb. 15, 11 am – 1 pm
Ages 4 and older
Included with $18 admission
Celebrate Black History Month with the AdvoKids! Learn about the important impact Black whalers had on Long Island, like Pyrrhus Concer, and create your own whale to take home during this drop-in program.
Harriet Tubman Lantern Craft
St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, 2463 Main St., Bridgehampton
Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2:30 – 3:30 pm
Ages 8 – 11
Free
Advanced registration required
Observe Black History Month by creating a lantern inspired by Harriet Tubman. Registration required.
Westchester
Black History & Culture: Revolutionary Legacies
Bethany Arts Community, 40 Somerstown Road, Ossining
Jan. 31–March 6, Mondays – Saturdays, 10 am – 4 pm
All ages
Free admission
In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Bethany Arts Community’s 6th Annual Award-winning Black History & Culture Exhibit: Revolutionary Legacies explores how African Americans have defined and redefined freedom from 1776 to today. Each gallery is rooted in a line from the Declaration of Independence, showing how Black people have continually challenged the nation to live up to its founding ideals. Through art, artifacts, photography, storytelling, and interactive installations, this exhibit honors the spirit of revolution, resilience, and representation that continues to shape the culture. From the battlefield to the way they dressed to command dignity, from innovation to influence, Black Americans have been, and remain, the true trendsetters of freedom and style.
Black History Month on Skates
The Rock Club, 130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle
Saturday, Feb. 7, 7 – 8:30 pm
All ages
$20
Get ready to roll during Black History Month! Join this fun and vibrant online roller skate session where you can groove, connect, and celebrate the rich culture and history of Black heritage. Lace up your skates, crank up the tunes, and make Saturday night unforgettable!
An Afternoon of African Storytelling: Music and Dance by the Mfuambila
White Plains Public Library, 100 Martine Ave., White Plains
Sunday, Feb. 8, 2 – 3 pm
All ages
Free
Registration encouraged
Experience the vibrant traditions of the Kongo and African cultures through drumming, dancing, and powerful storytelling, presented by the Mfuambila Company—an ensemble dedicated to representing, sharing, teaching, and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Kongo people. Bring your energy, your curiosity, and your dancing feet!
Black Soldiers in the Revolutionary War
St. Paul’s Church N.H.S. 897 S. Columbus Ave., Mt. Vernon
Saturday, Feb. 14, 1 pm
All ages
Free
A program combining a talk and a first-person re-enactment by outstanding performer Ryan Sett, exploring the story of the First Rhode Island regiment, a black unit that served in the Revolutionary War, including in Westchester County.
Black History Month: Revelators Dance Troupe
Grinton I. Will Library, 1500 Central Park Ave., Yonkers
Friday, Feb. 20, 3 – 4 pm
All ages
Free
Join the Revelators Dance Troupe for a special show celebrating Black History Month!
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