Explore Black History Month Events in London

For over two hundred years, Black communities have played a significant role in shaping life in and around London, often without their stories being fully documented or recognized.

As the city celebrates Black History Month 2026, groups like the London Black Heritage Council are using this time to reflect on the past and look ahead, emphasizing a history filled with settlement, resistance, and community building while thinking about what lies ahead.

“The theme this year is Empowered Voices, Endless Possibilities: 200 Years of Living History,” said Zahra Mc Doom, a curator and community historian involved in this year’s programming. “So I’m.. thinking about the future while looking at the past.”

This theme captures that dual focus as London marks its 200th anniversary, aiming to honor the enduring presence of Black communities in the area.

Throughout February, events will spotlight history, culture, and current community life while also showcasing future generations and leadership.

Here are some events happening in the city. If you know of one we missed, please email: Londonnewstips@cbc. ca

Saturday, Feb. 7, 1 to 4 p. m. at Museum London

The official opening celebration for Black History Month will take place at Museum London Saturday afternoon featuring live entertainment, keynote speakers, and cultural performances. Organizers say this event aims to unite the community while amplifying Black voices and experiences. Admission is free.

Thursday, Feb. 12, 4 to 6 p. m at Innovation Works

This event hosted by Pillar Nonprofit Network will focus on leadership development, community involvement, and volunteerism. Attendees will hear from speakers and engage in discussions centered on enhancing community impact through collective efforts.

Saturday, Feb. 14, 10 a. m. to 1 p. m. at the London Public Library, Central Branch

This family-friendly event is suitable for all ages and includes storytelling sessions along with music and performances celebrating Black history and culture. Organizers aim to create an interactive space where families can learn together.

Tuesday, Feb. 17, 8 to 9:45 a. m. at 101-244 Pall Mall St., London, ON

This networking gathering highlights Black business leadership and entrepreneurship while offering opportunities for members of the business community to connect and exchange ideas.

Saturday, Feb. 21 ,10 a. m. to3 p. m. atthe London Public Library, Cental Branch
The heritage fair invites attendeestoexplore London’s Blackhistoryandconnectwithlocalorganizationsandresources. Theeventalsoreflectson thecity’sbicentennialandtherole Blackcommunitieshaveplayedinshaping London’spastandpresent.

Thursday, Feb. 26, 5:30 to 7:45 at Museum London Join Museum Londonforascreeningofthedocumentaryfilm Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story. Shanewasagroundbreaking Blacktranswomansoul singerin Toronto’smusicsceneduringthe1960s. Sheperformedin Londonduringhercareerandhasinspiredgenerationsofperformers. Aheadofthefilmtherewillbeaconversationwithqueeradvocate Naomi Nadea.Saturday, Feb. 28, 1to4:30pmatthe Wolf Performance Hall, Centrallibrary Theclosingceremonymarkstheendof Black History Monthorganizedbythe London Black Heritage Councilwithperformancesby Blackartistsacrossmultipledisciplinesincludingdance, spokenwordandmusic. Areceptionwillfollowtheperformances.
Sunday, March8, 3:30to7:30pmatthe Wolf Performance Hall, Centrallibrary The Essence&Culture Awardsrecognizeindividualsandorganizationsfortheircontributionsto Blackcultureleadership, andcommunitybuilding. Theeveningincludesa cocktailreceptionfollowedbytheawardsceremony.

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