Black History Month is celebrated annually in the United States in February to highlight and recognize the significant contributions of Black people throughout history, honoring their achievements, struggles and cultural impact on society.
Here are several events that will be held in the Wilmington area.
Did we miss yours? Let us know by emailing [email protected].
New Hanover
Black History Carnival/Block Party
WilmingtoNColor will be celebrating the rich heritage of Wilmington with a Black History Carnival and Block Party. The event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 15 from noon-5 p.m. at The 1898 Memorial Park, located at 1018 N. Third St. on the Northside of downtown Wilmington. The family-friendly event is pay what you can.
Activities will include:
- Mini Black History Bus Tours provided by WilmingtoNColor Heritage Tour
- Bounce houses
- Video Gaming ― Xbox, PlayStation, old arcade games, and more
- Games ― Cornhole, spades, dominoes
- Speeches
- Performances
- Music
- Arts and Culture
- Food vendors and more
More:How these Wilmington civil rights pioneers helped push for change in the Port City
Black History Carnival Afterparty
Black N Color present “All Black with a Splash of Color” Black History Carnival Afterparty. The event will be hosted by CeoCed on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. at 1002 Chestnut St., Wilmington. It will celebrate the vibrant black community featuring music, art and culture. DJ Double O and DJ Champ will provide music. Jada the Omega Food Truck will be on site. The afterparty is for ages 21 and over. Tickets available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-n-color-tickets-1131103082769?aff=oddtdtcreator. The dress code is Black with a splash of color.
Brunswick
Brunswick County Black History Symposium
The Southport Historical Society will host the 13th annual Brunswick County Black History Symposium on Friday, Feb. 7 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Southport Community Building, 223 E. Bay St., Southport. Experience the premiere performance starring Tyanna Parker-West and James White of Celia Lee Galloway (1859-1950), widow of Abram Galloway of the U.S. Colored Troops. The performer will share the story of Celia Lee Galloway’s life in Southport. Musical performance by Taurus Deas. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The event is open seating, but please remember the front seats are reserved for descendants of Abram Galloway.
Related:How this Southport native supports Black history to ensure it’s not forgotten
Exploring African American Culture Through Collage Art
Explore both the themes and the work of historic and contemporary African American Collage artists with instructor Marcus Dawson. The event will be held Tuesday, Feb. 11 from 6-8 p.m. at Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way, Leland. Participants will learn from their techniques how to create unique and powerful visuals using elements from everyday life. This will include elements such as found materials, photographs, type, and more. Participants are encouraged to bring any of their favorite materials. For ages 16 and over.
Register at Exploring African American Culture Through Collage Art.
There also will be the same event held for ages 12-16 on Thursday, Feb. 20 from 5-7 p.m.
Register at Youth-Exploring African American Culture Through Collage Art.