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.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Dawoud Bey: Elegy
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts | Now Through February 25, 2024
Mesmerizing and evocative, these 42 photographs and two film installations by contemporary American artist Dawoud Bey contemplate the harrowing journeys and human realities of the Virginia slave trail, Louisiana plantations, and Ohio’s Underground Railroad. Dawoud Bey: Elegy premieres a trilogy that includes Bey’s most recent series of never-before-seen photographs taken in Richmond and commissioned by VMFA. Learn more.
Sculpting History at the Valentine Studio: Art, Power, and the “Lost Cause” American Myth
The Valentine | Opening January 25, 2024
Learn how Edward Valentine, leaders in Richmond, and others around the country created and perpetuated the harmful “Lost Cause” narrative through sculptures, and examine the impacts this narrative has had on Black Americans throughout history. Learn more.
The Kemetic Collection
Ẹlẹgba Folklore Society | Opening February 2, 2024
Visit Ẹlẹgba Folklore Society’s Cultural Center to explore the origins of civilization. Learn about the influences of Kemet (Egypt) on the shaping of the world, from architecture and engineering marvels to mathematics, from spirituality to its artistic expressions, from Kings and Queens of antiquity to artifacts, decor, adornment, and fashion. Get the details.
Visions of Progress
The Black History Museum and Cultural Center | February 6, 2024 - March 9, 2024
As part of the museum's Black History Month celebration, the special exhibition “Visions of Progress” will showcase stunning photographs of pre-Harlem Renaissance era representations of African American life. The images show a multifaceted perspective of African Americans in Virginia during the early 20th century. Learn more.
Patrice Renee Washington, Tendril
Institute for Contemporary Art | Opening February 16, 2024
View this solo exhibition at the Institute for Contemporary Art by Patrice Renee Washington. Working primarily in ceramics, Washington investigates structures of race, class, and gender and considers how identity can be manipulated and shaped to achieve different ends. Learn more.
The Impending Crisis
The American Civil War Museum | Opening February 16, 2024
The Impending Crisis will offer 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. Get early access and a deeper look at the making of this exhibition by attending the symposium of the same name from February 16-17. Plan to attend.
The Blues is Alright Tour
Altria Theater | February 24, 2024
Enjoy a night of entertainment at the Altria Theater featuring world-class blues artists. Experience a star-studded lineup of artists including Tucka, Pokey Bear, J-Wonn, King George, Lenny Williams, and West Love. Secure your tickets.
Black History Month Programming
Meadow Farm Parsons Community Center | Various Dates in February
Henrico County’s Parks and Recreation Department invites the public to enjoy free, insightful programming throughout the month of February, including sessions on Lieutenant James Reese Europe and the Harlem Hell Fighters and Virginian artists Leslie Bolling and George H. Ben Johnson. Visitors of all ages can look forward to story times about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.and Rosa Parks. Learn more.
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, Bike & Brunch Tours 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.
Jackson Ward Walking Tour
Discover the history and culture of this historic and vibrant neighborhood formerly known as "the 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, or relax and unwind at a yoga session at The Well Collective. 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. Indulge in all-natural body care products at Adiva Naturals, or head to The Book Bar to pick up a new read. 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, Croaker's Spot, a soul food staple in RVA or Farm + Oak, a Black-owned southern table restaurant new to the scene. Explore even more options, including bars, bakeries and more, here.
ADDITIONAL EVENTS THIS MONTH
Artist Inspiration: Bisa Butler | Bon Air Library | February 3, 2024
Visit Bon Air Library and study the works of Bisa Butler, an award-winning African American textile artist known for her vibrant, larger-than-life quilted portraits. Create your own printed tote bag inspired by her work.
Start Black History Month right at Chesterfield County's day-party celebration! Enjoy live music from the band Curv Appeal and DJ Chuck Stone, and fun line dancing with Break It Down RVA. Registration is required.
Attendees will discover the roles Black Virginia men had in the American Revolution - roles that are still often overlooked but undoubtedly helped the ideas of the Revolution to take root.
Black History Month Vendor Fair | Beulah Recreation Center | February 17, 2024
Discover an array of Black-owned businesses, jump-start your day with the 40+ Double Dutch Club, move with Fitness Warrior Andrea Boozer, experience art activations, enjoy live music, and let your children play at the Creative Kids Hangout.
Need ideas on how to spend an extended stay in RVA?
Check out these six themed 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.
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