Must see exhibits, concerts, neighborhood events, and cultural tributes happening this February
Chicago is the birthplace of Black History Month itself, first established in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson.
A century later, the city continues to honor that legacy with programming that is vibrant, community-centered, and deeply rooted in cultural truth.
This February 2026, Chicago is marking Black History Month with a powerful lineup of concerts, museum exhibitions, neighborhood celebrations, and educational events that highlight African American history, creativity, resilience, and cultural influence.
From major institutions downtown to local parks and community spaces on the South and West Sides, the month offers Chicagoans countless ways to engage with Black stories past and present.
Music and Performance Across the City
Black History Month celebrations this year include a strong focus on live performance and musical heritage.
The month opened with Drumline Live, bringing the traditions and energy of HBCU marching band culture to Chicago audiences. Cultural programming continues with a Musical Tribute to Paris in Black connected to the DuSable Museum’s current exhibit.
Later this month, concertgoers can look forward to performances including José James and Lizz Wright’s Marvin Gaye tribute, along with Valencia Lacy’s Journey to Here, a show tracing Black musical history through storytelling and song.
One of the signature events still ahead is the Black History Concert Series: Voices of Àṣẹ, taking place February 24 at the historic Auditorium Theatre.
Museum Exhibits Spotlight Black History and Creativity
Chicago’s museums are offering major exhibitions throughout February that explore Black history, artistry, and cultural memory.
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center remains a central hub for the month, featuring special programming and its exhibit Paris in Black.
At the Chicago History Museum, visitors can experience the ongoing exhibition Injustice: The Trial for the Murder of Emmett Till, and the museum will host its annual Commemorative Day: Black History Month on February 28.
Meanwhile, the Museum of Science and Industry continues its long-running tradition with the Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibit, showcasing work by Black artists from Chicago and beyond.
Citywide Events Through Libraries and Neighborhood Spaces
The Chicago Public Library system is marking Black History Month with events across multiple branches, including film screenings, poetry workshops, sound healing programs, and celebrations of Black voices in literature and design.
The Chicago Park District is also hosting official Black History Month celebrations throughout the city, including UMOJA community events, performances, and the upcoming Roots to Runway fashion showcase later this month.
These neighborhood gatherings ensure the celebration extends far beyond downtown, with meaningful programming taking place across the South and West Sides.
Food, History Tours, and Community Culture
Black History Month in Chicago is also being celebrated through culinary and neighborhood experiences.
Chicago Black Restaurant Week, running February 8 through 22, spotlights Black-owned restaurants across the city while celebrating heritage cuisine and local entrepreneurship.
In addition, neighborhood history tours led by historian Dilla are taking place throughout February, exploring communities including Bronzeville, Englewood, Pullman, Roseland, and North Lawndale.
The Chicago Black History Month calendar is not only a reflection of history, but a living celebration of culture, community, and creativity, honoring the legacy that began here 100 years ago and continues to grow.
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