Special Events to Celebrate Black History Month in Orlando 2026
- Alastair Mac
- 2 minutes ago
- 11 min read
Explore African American influence and culture throughout Orlando during Black History Month.
For 100 years, the nation has recognized the achievements and contributions of Black Americans and their place in American history during Black History Month.
In 2026, Black History Month takes place from Sunday, February 1, 2026 through Sunday, March 1, 2026, marking a century of national commemorations of Black history. For the 100th theme, the founders of Black History Month urge the nation to explore the impact and meaning of Black history and life commemorations in transforming the status of Black people in the modern world.
In Orlando, and throughout Central Florida you will discover multiple engaging events, exhibitions, and live performances celebrating the 2026 Black History Month Theme of "A Century of Black History Commemorations."
Highlights include an art exhibition at City Hall’s Terrace Gallery and several signature celebration events, allowing the Orlando community to celebrate the rich contributions of African American residents to our nation's cultural landscape throughout its history in the visual arts, performing arts, literature, film, music and much more.
Throughout the month residents and visitors are encouraged to take the time and explore Orlando’s rich African American heritage, history and cultural influences throughout the local neighborhoods, galleries and museums.
Orlando Black History Month Events 2026
We will be updating the list of Black History Month Events as we get new information on events and celebrations, check back often for the latest updates.
If you have a Black History Month event you want Orlando to know about, submit it here.
January 31
Barnett Park,4801 W Colonial Dr, Orlando
Honoring Black History is a powerful celebration of resilience, culture, and contributions, taking place at Barnett Par in Orlando from 12 - 4 pm.
February 2
Osceola Heritage Park,1875 Silver Spur Ln, Kissimmee
The The NBA G League’s Osceola Magic, based in Kissimmee will host a Black History Celebration on February 2 at their upcoming home game against the South Bay Lakers at Silver Spurs Arena. Arrive early to enjoy a pregame celebration, with the first 1,000 fans receiving a BHM Celebration Ball Cap.
February 3 - March 31
Orlando City Hall, 400 S Orange Ave, Orlando
Art is an intrinsic part of Black heritage and culture, and each year the City of Orlando offers an opportunity for artists to showcase the diverse richness of African American history and heritage through the visual arts.
Explore the stories, movements, impact and culture of Black Americans at the City of Orlando’s Black History Month Gallery, featuring original works by Central Florida artists reflecting on themes like resilience, historical legacy, contemporary identity and the contributions of Black trailblazers, scholars and everyday heroes. Join the opening celebration on Feb. 3, or stop by the Terrace Gallery at Orlando City Hall to explore this free exhibition weekdays from 9 am - 5 pm throughout its run.
February 3
Judson's Live at Dr Phillips Center, 445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando
In honor of Black History Month, Brandon Martin brings us this stirring and uplifting portrait of the African American experience. Embrace an evening of words and music from noted Black artists and activists throughout American history sure to inspire you.
February 5
Edyth Bush Theatre at Winter Park Library, 1052 W Morse Blvd, Winter Park
This free event features the groundbreaking music of the 1970's: Rhythm and Blues, Soul, and Hip-Hop including iconic artists like Ike and Tina Turner, Anita Baker, The 5th Dimension, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and more! The Sounds of the World Series is part of the Winter Park Playhouse's community outreach, shining a spotlight on the diverse and unique talent in the Central Florida community.
February 5
Kia Center, 400 W Church St, Orlando
The NBA’s Orlando Magic will celebrate Black History Month with special performances, cultural recognitions, and a night that honors the history, achievements, and resilience of the Black community during their upcoming game against the Brooklyn Nets at Kia Center.
February 5 - 26
Various Orlando Public Library Locations
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Black Americans as we celebrate the accomplishments and contributions made to our country throughout history. Local events will be held throughout Black History Month at local libraries. From book recommendations to pop culture discussions, the Orange County Library System wants you to join the conversation with library staff about the world around us. To view a full list of events and programs visit the OPLS website.
February 5 - 22
Orlando Family Stage, 1001 E. Princeton Street Orlando
Tiara's Hat Parade at Orlando Family Stage is a beautiful story about self-expression, resilience, and the power of family as it celebrates Black culture and creativity. Tiara’s Hat Parade is a family-friendly production based on the beloved picture book by prolific children’s author Kelly Starling Lyons. It tells the tale of young Tiara, who uses kindness, creativity, artistry and community to help her mother to revive her hat-making business.
February 5
Aloma Cinema Grill, 2155 Aloma Avenue, Winter Park
Celebrate Black History Month at Aloma Cinema Grillo n Thursday, February 5, with a matinee of Sarah’s Oil at 12 pm. Based on an incredible true story, Sarah’s Oil tells how eleven-year-old Sarah Rector, born in Oklahoma Indian Territory, trusted that there was oil beneath her barren land—and was proven right. This event is exclusively for seniors (55+).
February 7
Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church, 5200 West South Street, Orlando
This event is open to the public, and Pink Pearl Foundation want you to join them for a unique pop-up shopping experience as we celebrate Black History Month. Explore a unique collection of fashion, art, and culture created by local artists.
February 7
Blue Martini Lounge Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive, #1182 Orlando
Get ready to celebrate Black Excellence in style at the All Black Affair, bringing Black History Month in Style at Blue Martini. Expect an upscale crowd, stylish energy, and an atmosphere built for connection and celebration. The night will feature drink specials, hookah, and plenty of room to network, mix, and vibe with some of the city’s most influential professionals and creatives.
February 7
Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, 1050 West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park
Saturday, February 7, 2026 marks the 4th Red, Black & Green (RBG) Rebel Run 5K, a Black History Month celebration rooted in the historic Hannibal Square community of Winter ParK. Founded in 2021, the Rebel Run 5K was created to honor Hannibal Barca, the legendary North African military general and namesake of Hannibal Square—Winter Park’s historically Black neighborhood. Designed for runners and walkers of all ages and paces, the Rebel Run blends fitness, history, and cultural pride into one powerful community experience.
February 8
Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E Central Blvd, Orlando
Join Brandon Nightingale as he traces the intertwined histories of the Nightingale family – from enslaved ancestors along the Georgia coast to later generations who navigated Jim Crow, migration, and the continuing struggle for Black freedom.
February 10
The Plaza Live, 425 North Bumby Avenue, Orlando
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, District 5 City Commissioner Shan Rose, District 6 City Commissioner Bakari F. Burns, and the Orlando City Council invite the community to attend Orlando’s Black History Month Community Celebration on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at The Plaza Live. This free community event will include a reception with live entertainment, food, and performances by City Beautiful Voices, the City of Orlando’s employee choir.
February 12
Dr Phillips Center, 445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando
Join us for an unforgettable evening of music and inspiration as the renowned Bethune-Cookman University Concert Chorale, under the masterful direction of Karl Van Richards, takes the stage. This powerful performance blends themes of love, unity and cultural pride—an uplifting celebration perfectly suited for Black History Month.
February 13
Dr Phillips Center, 445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando
Voices of Freedom: An Evening of Spoken Word features premier spoken word poets from around the country gathered for a special night celebrating Black History Month.
February 15
Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E Central Blvd, Orlando
Discover the art and science of animation while saluting Black animators and storytellers who have shaped the industry. Enjoy sensory-friendly activities for all ages, create stop-motion animations, experiment with drawing at light tables, and become the star of your own animated adventure – all in a supportive environment with reduced noise levels and flexible participation.
Select Dates, Feb. 13 - 21
Timucua Arts Foundation, 2000 S Summerlin Ave, Orlando
Timucua Amplifies Black Voices (TABV) is a celebration of Black voices across creative expression in jazz, R&B, and classical music. While Timucua seeks to honor Black voices year-round, this annual festival returns in February 2026 to lift up Black voices in our community with world-class musical performances.
Enjoy individually ticketed performances by K.I.M. – Cool Contemporary Jazz (Feb. 13), Assel Jean-Pierre Trio (Feb. 14), Fragrance of Yah (Feb. 20), and Ari & Cecil Alexander Quartet (Feb. 21), or book Timucua Amplifies Black Voices combo tickets or festival passes.
February 16
Orlando Public Library, 101 E Central Blvd, Orlando
Celebrate African American literature in poetry, story, and song, performed by local luminaries in conjunction with the 35th Annual National African American Read-In. This event is free and open to the public.
February 21
Kissimmee City Chambers Park Community Center, 2380 Smith Street, Kissimmee
Join the City of Kissimmee for a Black History Celebration at the Park! This event will be held at the Kissimmee City Chambers Park Community Center. Come and celebrate the rich history and culture of the Black community with music, food, and entertainment. It's a great opportunity to learn and honor the achievements of Black individuals throughout history. Don't miss out on this special event!
February 22
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Avenue, Orlando
Join Orlando Mayor's Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission as they celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the annual MLK Gospel Concert, presented by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and the Mayor’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission and produced and directed by Grammy Award winner Dr. Jeffrey Redding.
Admission is free, but attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for UP – United Against Poverty, which will be distributed to various local community and school food pantries.
February 22
Masjid Al Quddus, 312 S. Parramore Ave. Orlando
As part of the Islam and African History reflection for the month of February, American Islam will be holding an event to provide a platform for accurate information, critical thinking and service.
February 22
The Ritz Theater, 201 Magnolia Ave, Sanford
The Sanford Jazz Ensemble will present their annual Salute to Black History Month concert at The Ritz Theater in downtown Sanford, featuring musical tributes to iconic American entertainers Louis Armstrong, Wynton Marsalis, Marvin Gaye and Thelonious Monk.
February 28
Denton Johnson Community Center, 400 Ruffel Street, Maitland
Black History Speaks is an opportunity to remember important people and events in African American history. The Eatonville Chamber is hosting talented Spoken Word Artists, Historians, and Rhythm Artists who will use their talents to educate, celebrate, embrace and reinforce that Black History Speaks.
African American History in Orlando
Eatonville
Just 25 minutes north of Orlando’s main tourism districts, the historic town of Eatonville was incorporated in 1887, making it one of the first self-governing, all-Black municipalities in the U.S. — and the oldest still in existence today. The township’s core, the Eatonville Historic District, was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1998, drawing countless history and culture aficionados in the decades since.
Around the turn of the 20th century, Eatonville attracted a family whose daughter would go on to great acclaim as an author: Zora Neale Hurston. Her best-known novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God, is set in Eatonville and nearby communities.
Parramore District
The oldest and largest African American neighborhood in Orlando, the Parramore District is an area rich in culture, heritage and heart. Explore the district to see how Parramore residents are creating their own modern legacies.
One of the district’s newest additions, Luminary Green Park, shines a light on individuals who made outstanding contributions to the Parramore-Holden community throughout their lifetime, honoring them with 12 luminary art installations. Located in the heart of downtown Orlando’s Creative Village, Luminary Green is the perfect place to stop and reflect on the past while looking forward to the future.
Hannibal Square
Hannibal Square is part of Winter Park, a charming community about 25 minutes north of Orlando’s tourism districts and close to Eatonville. It’s also home to the Hannibal Square Heritage Center, where you can explore the district’s origins as an African American community.
Officially founded in 1881, Hannibal Square originally consisted of African Americans who worked for the South Florida Railroad and Winter Park’s wealthy families. On Oct. 12, 1887, it became the site of one of the country’s earliest Civil Rights marches when a group of Black residents crossed the town’s dividing railroad tracks to vote in the election that officially incorporated Winter Park, including Hannibal Square. What’s more, two Black residents were elected aldermen, serving from 1887 to 1893.
Tinker Field
Head to downtown Orlando to visit historic Tinker Field, a space next to Camping World Stadium that served as a baseball stadium from 1923 through 2015 and was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 2004. It was also the site of a moving Civil Rights speech delivered by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1964.
Black History Museums in Orlando
Zora Neale Hurston Museum of Fine Arts
344 E Kennedy Blvd, Eatonville
Better known as The Hurston, the museum is run by the nonprofit Preserve Eatonville Community and specializes in art by individuals of African descent. The museum offers maps for self-guided tours of the area where Zora grew up and also sets up guided tours.
The modest town of 2,000 tucked just north of Orlando has preserved much of its historic roots, including Zora’s “home church,” St. Lawrence AME Church, 549 E. Kennedy Blvd., founded in 1881 and rebuilt in 1974, with 1920s-era murals depicting Eatonville residents at worship.
Hannibal Square Heritage Center
642 W New England Ave, Winter Park
Established in 2007 and only minutes from Eatonville, the Hannibal Square Heritage Center offers over 100 photos and oral histories highlighting local and national African-American experiences, with visiting exhibits that explore quilt making, urban art and other elements of black heritage and Southern folklore.
Winter Garden Heritage Museum
21 E Plant St, Winter Garden
The Winter Garden Heritage Museum features exhibits on Winter Garden’s Native American, early settler and citrus days, the museum boasts a permanent collection honoring the legacies of notable African American community members like Mildred Dixon, the first African American to serve on the city commission.
Wells Built Museum of African American History & Culture
511 W South St, Orlando
Erected by one of Orlando’s first black doctors in 1921, Wells’ Built Hotel served black travelers during segregation, hosting the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Thurgood Marshall and Jackie Robinson. Today, it’s a museum showcasing memorabilia and African art from Orlando’s black community. It includes a historic hotel guestroom with authentic furniture, beading and decorations straight out of the 1930s, when Zora spent time as an adult in the area.
Orange County Regional History Center
65 E Central Blvd, Orlando
Housed in a renovated 1927 courthouse in downtown Orlando, the museum features four floors of exhibits, including a permanent display of 14 paintings by a group of self-taught African-American artists known as The Highwaymen who sold their Florida landscape paintings from the trunks of their cars in the 1950s and 1960s. Most of the artists came from Fort Pierce, where Zora died in poverty in 1960.
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