Each year since 1976, the entire month of February honors and celebrates the achievements and contributions to society by Black Americans. It’s a time of remembrance for the important events and people who have shaped lives and culture throughout history.
This Black History Month, you can observe and join in the celebrations with different museum tours, live performances and more events happening all over Little Rock.
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Support Black-Owned Businesses
There are numerous Black-owned stores and restaurants in Little Rock that are more than deserving of your support. It may be obvious, but shopping at these local businesses is crucial to each owner’s livelihood and visibility, as well as keeping them in our city.
Visit the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center
The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center has released a full lineup of programming for Black History Month. Highlights include storytime for kids with CALS, The Smooth Sounds of West 9th featuring Rodney Block and a Juneteenth kickoff announcement. Plus, MTCC has partnered with Loblolly Creamery to bring back the special Maple Leaf Rag Time flavor with every scoop benefiting the MTCC.
Celebrate Black History Month with The Rep
The Rep is celebrating Black artistry through the years with “Proud.” Connecting the past, present and future of this community and its members, “Proud” features Little Rock natives Celeste Jennings and Maya Ellington to take audiences on a journey and showcase some of the biggest contributions by Black Arkansans. Public performances are free and take place on Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 24 at 3 p.m.
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Spend the Day in Black-Owned Little Rock
Use your dollars and time with intention and explore the local history, heritage and modern-day offerings of these Black-owned businesses in the capital city. Some notable spots include Lassis Inn, Eden Salt Studio, Cheesecake on Point, A Kick Above, Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing and more. Click here to learn more.
Watch a Performance of “Shining Light” at The Joint
On Feb. 25 at 7 p.m., Argenta Community Theater will present “Shining Light: A Cabaret Celebrating Black Voices” in partnership with The Joint. It will be a night of music and poetry by performers such as Val Bell, Nick Farr, Keith Harper, Portia Jones, Kasey Rowland and many more. Seating is limited at The Joint, so secure your ticket now.
Catch the Adaptation of the Late Edith Ware McClinton’s Memoir
Based on the 2000 tragic memoir by the late Edith Ware McClinton, “Scars Brought Into Focus: The Silver Screen Of The Mind * Images * Memories” tells the story of Edith Ware McClinton and her family’s connection to four different lynchings in Arkansas. The performance will be held at the Brandon House Cultural & Performing Art Center on Saturday, Feb. 24.
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Explore the “Piece of My Soul: Quilts by Black Arkansans” Exhibit
The Old State House Museum is showcasing its permanent quilt collection alongside its exhibition of “A Piece of My Soul: Quilts by Black Arkansans.” The extensive collection of quilts dating from 1890 to the present will be shown in conjunction with a fun and educational hands-on program for the whole family. Stop by the OSHM on Sunday, Feb. 18 and Sunday, Feb. 25 from 2-4 p.m.
Listen to Jonathan Bailey Holland’s “Halcyon Sun” Performed by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra
“Halcyon Sun,” the captivating piece commissioned by Jonathan Bailey Holland to celebrate the opening of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, will be performed by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra on Feb. 24 and 25. The piece will be played in a performance along with Kerson Leong. Click here for more information or to secure your tickets.
Honor Black History Month at CALS
The Central Arkansas Library System is celebrating Black History Month throughout February with informative and interactive events for everyone. Feb. 24’s Harmony in History is a family celebration featuring performances, hands-on activities, learning and unity. A free screening of “Rustin” will take place at the Ron Robinson Theater on Monday, Feb. 26, at 6:30 p.m. “Rustin” is about the architect of the 1963 March on Washington, Bayard Rustin, who was one of the greatest activists and organizers in the world. Plus, CALS even has a suggested reading list filled with Black authors.
Take a Tour of Civil Rights History in Arkansas
Little Rock is a city that is rich in Black history. Honor and remember that history by taking a Civil Rights tour through the city. Take a self-guided audio tour of more than 35 local landmarks that have shaped us into who we are. The tour starts at Broadway and West Ninth Street, but you can start at any location. Click here to get started.
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