Categories: Things To Do

Here’s how you can celebrate Black History Month in Calgary this February

Photo via @samini_dagaati / Instagram

January has come and gone and February is upon us. On the calendar this month? Valentine’s Day, Family Day and Black History Month. Whether you support a local business, donate your time or money to an organization, or attend an event, here are just a few ways to celebrate Black History Month in Calgary this year!

SUPPORT LOCAL

From the insanely good Jamaican food at 17th Avenue spot Simply Irie to the laid-back atmosphere at Calgary coffee shop Aggudeo, there are some great Black-owned businesses in Calgary. This month, if you’re going to grab a bite or indulge in a day of self-care, consider checking out one of the restaurants, cafes, bars or retail stores listed on the Afro Biz directory.

ATTEND AN EVENT

RHYTHM AND RHYMES: A BLACK HISTORY/365 EVENT

Looking for something to do with the family? Featuring award-winning artist Bubba B the MC, learn and dance your way through “Rhythms and Rhymes”, an interactive Black History Month event exploring music and literacy.

When: Sunday, February 12th, 2023
Where: 800 3 Street SE Calgary
Time: 2 pm – 3 pm
Cost: Free

BLACK FUTURES MONTH AT TWISTED ELEMENT

an evening of shopping, performances and fun, Black Lives Matter YYC, Ninth & Brick, and Inclusive Canada present Black Futures Month at Twisted Element. The market opens at 5 pm and performances begin at 6 pm. Don’t miss it!

When: Sunday, February 12th, 2023
Where: 1006 11 Avenue Southwest Calgary
Time: 5 pm
Cost: By donation

THE IMPORTANCE OF BLACK CANADIAN HISTORY IN THE AGE OF #BLACKLIVESMATTER

A virtual presentation hosted by Calgary Public Library – teens, educators and parents are encouraged to attend a conversation with Bashir Mohamed, a Black History Month Historian.

When: Wednesday, February 15th, 2023
Where: Online
Time: 7 pm – 8:30 pm
Cost: Free

CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH AT THE ETHNIK FESTIVAL OF ARTS & CULTURE

Promoting leadership and inspiring younger generations to express more genuine versions of themselves, The Ehtnik Festival will feature Grammy-award winner Donald Ray Johnson, Alison Hinds, Samini, celebrity chef, Roger Mooking and more!

When: Saturday, February 24-25th, 2023
Where: 136 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB Calgary
Time: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Cost: $25

ORGANIZATIONS AND RESOURCES

Knowledge is power and your wallet or time can speak volumes. One of the best ways that you can celebrate the legacy of Black Canadians is simply by learning about them or supporting organizations that they’ve started, endorsed or inspired.

Here are just a few local resources and charities that hold regular seminars or work to make a difference in the community.

And there you have it. Just a few ways that you can commemorate Black History Month in Calgary this year. Now go forth, learn something and be kind to one another! Happy February!