February is Black History Month, and Chicago is marking the occasion with a lineup of inspiring events across the city!
From museum exhibits and live performances to panel discussions and community celebrations, here are the best things to do for Black History Month in Chicago.
Black History Month Exhibits
Black History Month Programming at the Field Museum
The Field Museum is hosting a series of free events honoring Black history:
- Cultural Curators: Black Voices in the Museum Industry (Feb. 19) – A panel discussion featuring Black museum professionals sharing their experiences.
- Africa Fashion Exhibit Opening (Feb. 28) – A new exhibition showcasing couture from 20 African countries, with a special opening ceremony featuring live performances.
Learn more here.
Chicago History Museum: Black History Family Event (Feb. 24) – A full day of activities, including art-making, storytelling, scavenger hunts, and more—all included with general admission. Click here for more information
DuSable Black History Museum: Historic Change: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Ida B. Wells (Feb. 12) – A special event honoring journalist and civil rights leader Ida B. Wells, featuring a film screening and guest speakers. This event is free and open to the public with advanced registration.
Chicago Park District & Public Library Events
Looking for fun things to do for Black History Month in Chicago? The Chicago Park District and Chicago Public Library have you covered!
The city organizations are hosting a range of Black History Month programs, including art workshops, educational panels, museum tours, karaoke, and even a dance competition.
📅 Find the full Park District schedule here and the CPL event lineup here.
Uniting Voices Black History Month Concert Series
Formerly the Chicago Children’s Choir, Uniting Voices presents Afrofuturism: The Freedom Metropolis, a choral exploration of the rich rhythms and melodies of African music.
Catch Uniting Voices at the Chicago Symphony Center from Feb. 7-11. Learn more here.
Black Restaurant Week
February 9-23 is Black Restaurant Week in Chicago, two-week-long celebration of local Black-owned restaurants.
This year’s festival features more than 30 participating restaurants, encompassing a range of regional flavors and cuisines. Participating establishments cover Soul and Caribbean Food, vegan cuisine, pizza, handmade desserts, and much more.
Black Restaurant Week is the perfect opportunity to try something new and score a great deal, all while supporting local minority owned business.