Celebrate Black History Month in Greater Cleveland at these events
Throughout Greater Cleveland, a diverse array of events are planned for February to commemorate Black History Month. These include free access to art, historical exhibits, concerts, and educational opportunities. Individuals interested in contributing to the event listings can submit details via email to [email protected].
Exploring Black Art and History
The Cleveland Museum of Art will host guided tours throughout February on Sundays and Wednesdays. These tours will specifically highlight works by African American artists within the museum’s collection. While admission is free, a ticket is required to participate, and registration is available here.
Reflecting on School Desegregation
From Monday to Saturday, between 10 a.m. And 6 p.m., the Main Library Downtown’s Brett Hall will feature the Relay Cleveland exhibit. This exhibit provides a detailed look at the personal and political experiences surrounding the journey of school desegregation in Cleveland.
Community and Cultural Events
The Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland opened a satellite location for the ThirdSpace Reading Room in January. Located on Level 4, this space offers a unique literary experience. Through April 30, the Cleveland History centre will showcase an art exhibition honoring the Tuskegee Airmen, featuring original paintings created by students from the Cleveland School of the Arts.
Celebrating Leaders and Justice
On Tuesday, February 3, the Black Environmental Leaders (BEL) will hold their annual meeting and 4th Annual Jacquie Gillon Luncheon at the Cleveland Public Library’s Louis Stokes Wing, beginning at 11:30 a.m. Doors open at 11 a.m. Tickets are free and can be obtained here. The event commemorates the life of BEL founder Jacquie Gillon and recognizes progress in environmental justice.
Engaging Programs for All Ages
A “Celebrate and Create” event, designed for children 18 and under, will be held on Wednesday, February 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. At the Cleveland Public Library – South Branch. The event will combine education about Black leaders and artists with a hands-on arts and crafts activity. On Friday, February 6, at 7 p.m., the Cleveland Charge will host a Black Heritage Celebration game against the Greensboro Swarm at the Public Auditorium, with tickets starting at $14.
Preserving History and Fostering Dialogue
On Saturday, February 14, Loganberry Books will host a Douglass Day Black History Transcribe-a-thon from noon to 3 p.m. Participants can learn to transcribe primary sources to expand access to Black history, and the event will also be livestreamed on YouTube. Details and links can be found here. The Relay Cleveland exhibit will conclude with a keynote discussion on Wednesday, February 18, from 4 to 8 p.m., focusing on educational equity.
Arts, Culture, and Remembrance
The “It’s Time for BLAX Museum 2026” showcase will take place on Saturday, February 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. At the East Cleveland Public Library Auditorium, featuring Northeast Ohio artists honoring notable Black figures. The Ancestral Remembrance Gala will be held on Sunday, February 22, at 2 p.m. At Karamu House, with doors opening at 1 p.m. A showcase celebrating creative expression will be held on Thursday, February 26, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. At the LGBT Community centre of Greater Cleveland.
February 28 will feature two musical events: “Music At Main” at the Main Library – Downtown from 2 to 3 p.m., featuring the Theron Brown Trio, and “Spiritual Echoes 2026,” a concert presented by the Euclid Symphony Orchestra at the First Baptist Church of Greater Cleveland at 7:30 p.m. Ticket information for the Euclid Symphony Orchestra concert is available here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of events are planned for Black History Month in Greater Cleveland?
A variety of events are planned, including art tours, historical exhibits, concerts, educational programs, and community celebrations.
Where can I find more information about the Relay Cleveland exhibit?
The Relay Cleveland exhibit is located at the Main Library Downtown, Brett Hall, 325 Superior Ave, and is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. To 6 p.m.
Are any of the events free to attend?
Yes, many events are free, including the Black History Art Tours at the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Black Environmental Leaders Annual Meeting.
What event would you most like to attend and why?