Philadelphia honors Black History Month with events celebrating the Black Americans who shaped our city and nation’s past and who continue to lead us forward today. Taking place throughout the month of February, these meaningful events will enrich your family with inspiration and learning.

How the City Celebrates Black History Month

Looking to take part in Black History Month with your kids? Discover these family-friendly activities around the city, ranging from museums to free events.

History Maker Saturdays at Betsy Ross House

Saturdays in February 2026 (7th, 14th, 21st, & 28th), 11am–3 pm
Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch St., Philadelphia, 19106

With this event, families can meet two remarkable Black women from colonial Philadelphia: Ona Judge and Margaret Woodby. Ona Judge was enslaved by George Washington’s family and bravely fled to freedom when the family prepared to return to Virginia. Margaret Woodby owned a successful bakery in 1785. Families can learn about Philadelphia’s free Black tradespeople and even try shaping their own confections as part of the Meet the Women of 18th Century Philadelphia program. This free event runs every Saturday in February.

Storytelling Sundays at Betsy Ross House

Sundays in February 2026 (1st, 8th, 15th, & 22nd), 11am–3 pm
Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch St., Philadelphia, 19106

At Betsy Ross House, families can meet colonial women who share their stories of Black life in Philadelphia and hear Once Upon A Nation Storytellers reveal little-known histories of the city’s free Black community. These engaging programs bring the 18th century and beyond to life through true tales and compelling narratives. This free event runs every Sunday in February.

Black Art, Black Voices Tour at Philadelphia Museum of Art

Weekends in February 2026, (7 & 8, 14 &15, 21 & 22, and 28) from 2–3 pm
Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, 19130

Spend the afternoons in February with a guided tour celebrating black voices at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This event is free with museum admission. Space is limited to 20 participants on a first-come, first-serve basis. Register and reserve tickets on their website.

Black History Celebration

Saturday, February 7, 2026, all day event
Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, 19131

At Please Touch Museum, families can explore immersive, hands-on workshops in celebration of Black change-makers, ranging from inventing and dancing to designing and drumming.

Fundamentals of Rhythm Workshop: Break Dancing

Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11 am
Logan Library, 1333 Wagner Ave., Philadelphia, 19141

This event allows students to learn basic moves and create choreography by exploring the American art form of breakdancing with Hip Hop Fundamentals. Established in the 1970s by New York’s youth, this dance form is an engaging and immersive way for young people to express themselves, have fun, exercise, build confidence, and work as a team. This workshop is designed to build self-confidence and reinforce the idea that anything is possible with effort and resilience.

Oldways: A Taste of African American Heritage

Monday, February 9, 2026 at 5:30 pm
Parkway Central Library,1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia, 19103

The Culinary Literacy Center presents a special Oldways cooking demonstration honoring African American foodways, history, and cultural traditions as a living expression of memory and resilience. The program features Garlicky Greens, Mafe (Senegalese Sweet Potato Stew), Papaya & Mango After-Chop, and hibiscus tea, plus a demonstration on traditional desserts prepared by enslaved African Americans in Pennsylvania using elderberry flour and blackstrap molasses. Participants will learn the historical and cultural context behind each recipe while enjoying tasting portions. Registration for this event is appreciated.

Ananse and Me with the Amazing Mr. Q

Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 12 pm
Fishtown Community Library, 1217 East Montgomery Ave., Philadelphia, 19125

Join Mlanjeni Magical Theater for Ananse and Me, where the Amazing Mr. Q leads a performance celebrating Black History Month with puppets, magic, folk music, and dance. The show follows the antics and adventures of Ananse the Spider in a fun experience for all ages. Children under 7 must be accompanied by a caregiver.

Winter Concert with Paris Marie & Friends

Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 2 pm
Kingsessing Library, 1201 South 51st Street, Philadelphia, 19143

Come dance away your winter blues with Philly-born Paris Marie, whose music draws from R&B, soul, jazz, and contemporary pop to explore themes of love, self-discovery, and vulnerability. Her performances feel authentic and lived-in, creating an unforgettable experience.

Black History Month Civic Heroes Trolley Tour

Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 10 am
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), Lenfest Plaza Paint Torch Sculpture, 128 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102

For a special celebration, families can go on a special trolley tour featuring murals of iconic Black figures, civic heroes, and social justice themes. A professional guide leads families through Philadelphia neighborhoods to view stunning murals and hear the stories behind each artwork and artist. Register and reserve tickets on their website.

Read the Revolution Speaker Series with Julia Gaffield and Marlene L. Daut

Wednesday, February 25, 2026 from 6:30 pm–7:30 pm
Museum of the American Revolution, 101 South Third Street, Philadelphia, 19106

Dr. Julia Gaffield and Dr. Marlene L. Daut present the second program in the Museum of the American Revolution’s Read the Revolution Speaker Series. They will both explore Haiti’s 1804 Declaration of Independence and its connection to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. FIrst, Gaffield will discuss Haiti’s first political leader Jean-Jacques Dessalines. Then, Daut will share the story of his successor, Henry Christophe, Haiti’s only king. These discussions will reveal how these formerly enslaved leaders defined freedom for their new nation. The program takes place in Liberty Hall and will be broadcast live via Zoom.

Renaissance Orchestra Jazz Concert

Friday, February 27, 2026 at 6 pm
Oak Lane Library, 6614 North 12th Street, Philadelphia, 19126

For Black History Month, jazz comes alive at Oak Lane Library with an all-ages, after-hours concert. Space is limited, so families should arrive early when doors open at 5:30 p.m. This concert is made possible by the Music Performance Trust Fund and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 77.

Spend Black History Month in Philly

With these family-friendly activities, you and your little ones can celebrate Black History Month in Philadelphia.

Lead photo courtesy of Mural Arts Philadelphia.