Join us in celebrating Black History Month this February as we honor the achievements and contributions of African Americans who have influenced history in the Richmond Region and beyond. Immerse yourself in RVA's vibrant Black culture and deep-rooted history and explore these upcoming events and must-visit locations.
EXHIBITIONS
Arthur Ashe: An Enduring Legacy
Opening January 28, 2026 | The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia
Plan your visit to the BHMVA to explore their latest immersive exhibition that celebrates Black tennis legend, Arthur Ashe and highlights his journey from Richmond to the world. Step into his story through artifacts, images, and documents that showcase Ashe’s lasting legacy.
Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys
Now through March 1, 2026 | Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Witness a larger than life exhibition that explores the profound and prolific contributions of Black artists to the field of contemporary art. See nearly 130 objects of the famed Dean Collection, including iconic works of art by nearly 40 “giants” of the art world.
The Heart and the Eye: An Engagement with Black Art
February 1 – 28, 2026 | Various Locations
In celebration of Black History Month, Richmond’s three Black-owned galleries, Southside Contemporary, Chromophore Artspace, and HI•RES Gallery are joining forces to activate their spaces all month long. Visit all three galleries for artist talks, drawing sessions, live DJs, receptions, giveaways, and more.
Ayida
Now through February 22, 2026 | Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU
This group exhibition at the ICA celebrates the Caribbean and its diaspora and investigates the material, spiritual, and intellectual cultures of Haiti and the Dominican Republic, among other sites. Taking inspiration from Haitian poet and performer Assotto Saint (b. 1957 Haiti, d. 1994 New York), an important figure of the 1980s Black and gay writers’ movement, the exhibition considers Saint’s own complex relationship to Haitian Vodou, a topic frequently censored in Western societies.
Sculpting History at the Valentine Studio: Art, Power, and the "Lost Cause"
Ongoing | The Valentine
Learn the origins and influence of the “Lost Cause” American myth and examine the impacts this narrative has had on Black Americans throughout history. This captivating multimedia presentation combines artworks sculpted by Edward Valentine as well as documents, objects, images, quotations, and questions to connect the Lost Cause myth to today.
The Impending Crisis
Ongoing | The American Civil War Museum
The Impending Crisis offers a unique look at not only the often-heard “North vs. South” perspectives leading up to the Civil War but also the points of view of historically overlooked populations, including enslaved people and Black church congregations. Learn about the themes that were present during this time, including resistance and resilience, seizing freedom, and action to activism.
UPCOMING EVENTS
A Conversation with Kamala Harris
February 2, 2026 | Altria Theater
Join former Vice President Kamala Harris for a night of surprising and revealing insights inspired by her #1 New York Times bestselling book, 107 DAYS. Looking for more at the Altria Theater? Browse their schedule of upcoming performances, live music acts, and more happening this February.
Friday at the Museum
February 6, 2026 | Virginia Randolph Museum
The Virginia Randolph Museum is a National Historic Landmark and explores the life of an innovative African American educator who was an inspiration to her students and the community. Plan your visit to explore the contributions and legacy of this trailblazing Black history figure.
RVA Community Makers Unveiling Event
February 12, 2026 | Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Now in its 8th year, the annual RVA Community Makers is a collaborative art project that honors local community advocates. As part of Black History Month, local artist Hamilton Glass and the VMFA collaborate with artists, educators, and local leaders to celebrate those who have made a positive impact on the community, unveiling a unique art installation in their honor.
“African Americans of Hanover County, Virginia” Book Tour with Joe Gorman
February 12, 21, and 28, 2026 | Various Locations
Hear from Hanover County Public Schools social studies teacher, Joe Gorman during his multi-stop book tour discussing his latest release, “African Americans of Hanover County, Virginia.” Join Gorman as he discusses the hidden history of Hanover and the powerful stories about Hanover African-Americans’ contributions to the growth and success of the county.
Genealogy Workshop - Finding Free Black Ancestors
February 13, 2026 | Library of Virginia
Explore the methods and resources for African American genealogy through the end of the Civil War. This workshop will focus on how to find free Black ancestors in the Library of Virginia's collections using records such as “Free Negro Registers,” wills, chancery court records, deeds and tax lists.
The History of Black Distillers and Brewers in America with Debra Freeman
February 12, 2026 | Clover Hill Library, Chesterfield County
Learn the fascinating history of Black distillers and brewers with award-winning writer and podcaster Debra Freeman, an expert in the intersection of race, culture, and food. Explore even more Chesterfield County public library events, here.
Black History Month - History, Craft, and Community
February 15, 2026 | Quirk Hotel Lobby Bar
Celebrate Black History Month with an evening dedicated to wine, local hospitality, and community. Hear local guest speakers share their experiences and offer insights into wine and hospitality, and explore the rich history and culture behind the industry.
Let’s Groove Tonight
February 20, 2026 | Dominion Energy Center for the Performing Arts
Led by Broadway superstar Chester Gregory and vocal powerhouses Cherise Coaches and Brik Liam, this incredible evening is full of classic hit songs made famous by The Spinners, The Stylistics, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Lou Rawls, Diana Ross, Gamble and Huff and more.
Convergence
February 21, 2026 | Location TBA
Join Elegba Folklore Society for a day of immersive cultural and diasporic master classes featuring dance and drumming performances, food, and fellowship. Be sure to follow Elegba Folklore Society on social media for more event details to come.
Hi-Hat Hattie
February 25, 2026 | Cultural Arts Center of Glen Allen
Step backstage with Hi-Hat Hattie, a powerful solo stage play starring Richmond Theatre Critics Circle Best Actress winner Dorothy “Dee D.” Miller. Set in an old theater, this intimate musical journey brings to life the legacy of Hattie McDaniel, a trailblazing entertainer, barrier-breaker, and the first African American actor to win an Academy Award.
Chesterfield County Black History Month Programming
Various Locations
Celebrate all month long across Chesterfield County with programs highlighting the rich heritage, achievements, and ongoing contributions of Black Americans. The theme of this year’s celebration is “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” Highlights include the official Black History Month Kick Off, a free day-party celebration on February 7 at Virginia State University, and the Third Annual Black History Month Vendor Fair on February 21 at Beulah Recreation Center. Explore more Chesterfield County events ahead, here.
Henrico County Recreation and Parks Black History Month Programming
Various Locations
Henrico County’s Recreation and Parks Department invites the public to enjoy free, insightful programming for all ages throughout the month of February. Highlights include, History Bingo: Henrico Black History Month Edition, the Woodland Cemetery Tour, and From Silhouettes to Selfies: Legacy of Black Portraiture. Explore more Henrico County programming ahead this month, here.
Richmond Public Library Black History Month Programming
Various Locations
Mark your calendars for a variety of free programs celebrating Black voices, stories, and experiences all month long across RPL's nine library branches. Catch a movie during their Main Matinee events, enjoy a Black History Month book swap, attend the 5th Annual Black History Month Social and Celebration, and more. Explore a full list of programs, here.
GUIDED AND SELF GUIDED TOURS
Mending Walls Street Art Tour
Mending Walls is a public art project created by Richmond artist, Hamilton Glass. The project brings together public artists from different cultures and backgrounds to create murals that address where we are now in society and how we can move forward through understanding and collaboration. Plan a tour with RVA TukTuk or on-foot and check out over 20 vibrant murals painted throughout Richmond's downtown corridors while examining the thought provoking messages behind them. Learn more.
Old Dominion Walking Tours
Set out on an immersive, guided tour experience uncovering the paths and local landmarks where history was made. Book the Dark History: The Richmond “Municipal War” tour or the Richmond African American History tour to dive deeper into the often-unheard stories and ancestral history of Black Richmond, with the assistance of a professional history guide.
Jackson Ward Walking Tour
Discover the history and culture of this historic and vibrant neighborhood formerly known as "Harlem of the South." Set out on a self-guided tour, or get a group together and embark on a guided tour with Jackson Ward native and historian, Gary Flowers.
SUPPORT BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES
Health and Wellness
Renew your mind, body and spirit in RVA and explore our region's growing list of Black-owned wellness resources. Take a high energy spin class to a trap, R&B or Soca soundtrack at Hour Cycle Studio debuting in a brand new location this February, or relax and unwind at an infrared sauna session at Prism Sauna Spa. Choose your adventure, find your rhythm, and feel great. Start exploring.
Shop Local and Black-Owned
With a number of boutiques, store fronts, pop-up shops, and markets, the Richmond Region is on the cutting edge of building creative shopping experiences. Create your own custom candle and body care items at Brown House Candle Company, or head to Waller and Co. Jewelers to pick up something sparkly. Shop RVA's variety of Black-owned businesses and find the perfect product, sentimental souvenir, or a gift worth giving. Explore more.
Award-Winning Dining
Savor the flavor of RVA's award-winning Black-owned culinary scene and experience delicious, diverse and unique cuisines offered across the region. Stop by M&F Jamaican Cafe for a taste of authentic Jamaican cuisine, Farm + Oak, a Black-owned southern table restaurant, Mama J's, a Jackson Ward soul food staple or The Estate Restaurant and Lounge, a Colonial Heights restaurant committed to community and good vibes. Explore even more options, including bars, bakeries, and more, here.
NEED IDEAS ON HOW TO SPEND AN EXTENDED STAY IN RVA?
Check out these six BLK RVA itinerary ideas!
This Black History Month, get to know BLK RVA, a collaborative tourism initiative that amplifies and celebrates Black culture in the Richmond Region year-round. Visit the BLK RVA website to begin exploring BLK RVA’s unique soul.
