February will mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of Black History Month in 1926 by famed historian Carter G. Woodson. The son of formerly enslaved parents, Woodson spent his life documenting Black history throughout the diaspora and created the annual celebration to acknowledge our accomplishments and contributions to the world.
“If you teach the Negro that he has accomplished as much good as any other race he will aspire to equality and justice without regard to race,” Woodson wrote in his seminal 1933 work The Mis-Education of the Negro.
In that spirit, Atlanta — long heralded as the center of many historic moments in Black history — always puts its best foot forward in February for a roundup of events for friends and families to enjoy.
Check out these events designed to celebrate us and our history around the city!
February 7
Heroes in the Making: Figure Exhibit and Workshop
The event includes an exhibit of Black dolls and action figures, and includes time for doll making, as well.
Location: Outdoor Activity Center, 1442 Richland Road SW, Atlanta
Time: noon-2 p.m.
Tickets: Prices range from free to $7.82; purchase tickets in advance
February 8
Atlanta Black History 365 & Civil Rights Experience Tour
The tour explores major moments in Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights Movement, stopping at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, Sweet Auburn Avenue, the AUC, and more.
Location: Marriott Marquis Hotel, 265 Peachtree Center Ave. NE, Atlanta
Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Tickets: $160.83; Purchase tickets in advance
February 11-15
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
The legendary dance company will present new work and iconic performances like “Revelations.”
Where: The Fox Theater, 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Seats start at $51.25; purchase in advance
February 13
The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords Documentary Screening
Explore the history of brave journalists who fought to tell the stories of our communities.
Location: Northwest Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 1025 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs
Time: 6:45 p.m.
Tickets: Free admission; Reserve spot in advance
February 14
Stories in Stitches: A Quilting Skillshare
Participants will create quilting squares inspired by Harriet Powers, a woman born into slavery in Georgia who created story quilts inspired by the Bible. No sewing experience needed.
Location: Outdoor Activity Center, 1442 Richland Road SW, Atlanta
Time: 11 a.m.
Tickets: Prices start at $19.44; purchase tickets in advance
February 20-22
Atlanta Black Expo
Over 200 Black vendors will showcase their products and services at this annual gathering. Friday features a focus on education with a lineup of guest speakers. Saturday hosts a homecoming tailgate party with old-school music and games. Sunday features prayer and worship.
Location: Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, Atlanta
Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tickets: Starting at $15
February 21
African American Folktales
Mama Koku and Chetter Galloway share folklore and culture, from the tricks and tales of Anansi and Brer Rabbit to the rhythms of the talking drum.
Location: Lawrenceville Performing Arts Center, 125 N. Clayton St., Lawrenceville
Time: 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Tickets: $7; purchase in advance
February 22
Queen & Slim Live Stage Play & Showcase
Explore themes of Black love and liberation with a live performance of Lena Waithe’s iconic movie.
Location: Apache XLR, 393 Marietta St. NW, Atlanta
Time: 8 p.m.
Tickets: $33.85; purchase in advance
February 25
Capital B Presents “Why I Love Atlanta”
Join Capital B Atlanta community engagement editor Ann Hill Bond and a panel of historians to explore Atlanta’s hidden history of resistance, mobility, and excellence. Attendance includes one drink ticket and buffet access.
Location: Wild Heaven Beer West End, 1010 White St. SW, Atlanta
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Tickets: Free
February 26
The hip-hop musical celebrates the early life and legacy of U.S. Rep. John Lewis.
Location: Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell
Time: 7 p.m.
Tickets: Seats start at $31; purchase in advance
February 27
A Taste of Black Gwinnett
It’s a night of games, soul food, entertainment, and spoken word hosted by the Gwinnett County Black Chamber of Commerce.
Location: Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center, 10 College St. NW, Norcross
Time: 6-10 p.m.
Tickets: $5 (12 and under free); purchase in advance
