Celebrate Black History Month and honor the rich legacies, triumphs, and contributions of African Americans throughout history.
From the vibrant streets of Charleston to the historic halls of Durham, the Carolinas are buzzing with events that bring us together to reflect, learn, and celebrate. Whether you’re passionate about the stories of unsung heroes, the powerful impact of Black entrepreneurs, or the ongoing journey of education and integration, the upcoming celebrations promise something for everyone. So grab your calendar, mark those dates, and get ready to experience Black History Month in a way that’s as heartfelt as it is inspiring. Kick off this month-long celebration with some incredible events right here in the Carolinas!
1. Charleston Area Branch ASALH Black History Month Kick-Off 2025
Location: Baxter Patrick Library, 1858 S Grimball Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
Date and Time: Saturday, February 1, 2025, 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Price: Free
Celebrate the launch of Black History Month with the Charleston Area Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) at their engaging kick-off event. This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor,” will delve into the significant role that labor—whether free or unfree, skilled or unskilled—has played in shaping the African American experience. The event features a thought-provoking presentation, a recognition ceremony honoring local community achievements, and the unveiling of ASALH’s 2025 event calendar. Light refreshments will be provided, and attendees are encouraged to bring a book to share in a community book exchange. It’s a fantastic way to engage with the past while looking forward to a full month of celebration and learning.
2. 3rd Annual Black History Ball: Walk with Living History through the Halls of Integration
Location: Columbia Museum of Art, 1515 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Date and Time: Saturday, February 1, 2025, 12:00 pm – 6:30 pm (Doors open at 11:30 am)
Price: General Admission
Join the Gullah Roots Historical Foundation for an afternoon steeped in powerful history at their 3rd Annual Black History Ball. This year’s theme, Walk with Living History through the Halls of Integration, highlights the pivotal moment of Brown vs. the Board of Education and the subsequent integration of public schools. Attendees will hear firsthand accounts from those who lived through the landmark events of the Civil Rights Movement and gain invaluable insight into the transformative changes in education. The event offers a unique, reflective experience where history truly comes to life.
3. 4th Annual Umoja Village Black History Month Community Celebration
Location: Lessie B. Price Senior & Youth Center, 841 Edgefield Ave. NW, Aiken, SC 29801
Date and Time: Sunday, February 2, 2025, 3:00 pm
Price: $20 for Adults, $15 for Students and Seniors
Celebrate Black history, culture, and excellence at the 4th Annual Umoja Village Black History Month Community Celebration. This inspiring event will feature a catered meal, dynamic entertainment, and emotional tributes to local heroes who have made a significant impact on their communities. Attendees will also have the chance to honor the 12 Umoja Village Unsung Heroes showcased in the 2025 Umoja Village Celebrates Black Excellence calendar. Additionally, the recipient of the 2025 William Clyburn Lifetime Achievement Award will be revealed. Tickets are available for purchase at UmojaVillage.com, and there are sponsorship opportunities for those looking to get more involved.
4. Greater Durham Black Chamber of Commerce Annual Black Business Gala
Location: Greater Durham Black Chamber of Commerce, Durham, NC (Exact venue TBD)
Date and Time: Saturday, February 8, 2025, Time TBD
Price: Varies (Tickets and Sponsorships Available)
The Greater Durham Black Chamber of Commerce is honoring Black business excellence at their Annual Black Business Gala. This prestigious event will celebrate outstanding local business leaders, including Dr. Wanda Boone as Woman of the Year and Sherrod Banks as Man of the Year. The Gala will also highlight the 2025 Emerging Business of the Year, Longstanding Business of the Year, and Community Organization of the Year, along with the announcement of the 2025 Connia Watson Scholarship recipients. Attendees will enjoy an elegant evening of networking, reflection, and recognition, all while supporting Black entrepreneurship in the Durham area.
5. Empowered, Brilliant, and Brave: Great Women of Black History
Location: Wake Forest Community Center, 301 S Brooks St, Wake Forest, NC 27587
Date and Time: Saturday, February 8, 2025, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Price: Free (First Come, First Served)
The Bright Star Touring Theatre is bringing Black history to life with an inspiring performance, Empowered, Brilliant, and Brave: Great Women of Black History. This one-hour presentation will showcase some of the most remarkable women who have shaped Black history, from trailblazing activists to groundbreaking artists. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to learn together, and with free admission, it’s accessible to all. Be sure to arrive early as seating is limited, and this program fills up fast.
