13 Things to Do During Black History Month in NYC

Broadway is currently host to some amazing Black stories and Black-led productions. Check out new shows like Jelly’s Last Jam, a musical all about jazz pianist Jelly Roll Morton starring Billy Porter (Pose) and Joaquina Kalukango (Paradise Square). Or finally get tickets to see Tony-nominated MJ the Musical and jam out to classic hits from the King of Pop. 

On February 17, retrace the steps of W.E.B. DuBois, Martin Luther King, Jr., and more icons through the historical landmarks of Harlem. The Big Onion hosts a walking tour known as the Historic Harlem: Celebrating Black History Month. Learn about the Harlem Renaissance and how the upper Manhattan enclave became the "Capital of Black America." The walk lasts for two hours, where you'll stop at places like The Apollo Theater, The Schomburg Center and Striver's Row.

This historical landmark has been one of the city’s leading entertainment destinations for over four decades and is hosting a variety of events in February and beyond that celebrate Black performers. Are you a music fan? Four-time Grammy nominee Stefon Harris will show off improvised jazz through technology, poetry and stunning visual elements on February 18. There’s also the theater's classic series—Amateur Night at the Apollo—that’s returning on February 21 with a new line of performers. Luther Vandross, Lauryn Hill and H.E.R. are some of the many legends who've previously performed in the famous talent show, so get your tickets now to see the next big star hit the stage.

Hosted by opera singer Denyce Graves on February 27, the “Claiming Your Space: A Celebration of Black Music” performance will honor the 90th anniversary of a 1934 concert that was curated by Black artists and composers of the time. The one-night event will also feature new works from current Juilliard students. Attendees will have a chance to check out a special exhibit showcasing photographs and programs of Black artists and activists that went to Julliard such as Danielle Brooks, John Lewis and Alvin Alley. 

The NYC Department of Parks & Recreation is hosting a variety of activities and events this month honoring Black women. On February 18, join a storytelling hike and fireside chat happening at Van Cortlandt Park in The Bronx. You’ll walk along the trails and learn more about the science fiction writer Octavia Butler. Or head over to St. Nicholas Park in Harlem to learn more about the revolutionary Black women who’ve contributed to the community on February 25. 

The New York Public Library is offering a plethora of Black History Month activities. Attend a storytime with your kiddo, a virtual discussion discussing the impact of comic superhero Static Shock or a talk on why Black authors matter. There’s also an in-person presentation about An Island in Bloomingdales: Life in the Old Community, which will discuss the life of Black New Yorkers who moved to the Upper West Side during the 20th century. Plus, a few libraries across the five boroughs are hosting movie screenings. Check out films likeI Am Not Your Negro, Southside with You and The Color Purple, to name a few. (Note: Check the NYPL website to find out your local library movie showings and in-person book discussions.)

If you’re a bookworm, there are seven bookstores you have to check out in NYC. Head over to The Lit. Bar, a wine bar and bookstore located in the Bronx (which FYI is the only indie bookstore in the entire borough). Or you can head over to Cafe Con Libros located in Crown Heights, Brooklyn where you can grab a book and delicious coffee. There’s also The Free Black Women’s Library, where you can peruse over 5,000 books written by Black women and non-binary writers. 

The Brooklyn Children's Museum is hosting its annual Black Future Festival. The all-day event celebrates and highlights the African Diaspora and Black History Month as a whole. The entire family can enjoy hours of storytelling, workshops, performances and more. It'll run from February 18 to February 25.

In honor of Black History Month, AMC Theaters is offering $5 tickets to four movies that celebrate Black stories, characters and filmmakers. In nine- selected theaters across NYC, you can check out The Color Purple, The Equalizer 3, Spider-Man Across The Spider-Verse and Soul all month long.