2024 Black History Month Events in Westchester
February is Black History Month. This offers many great learning opportunities to teach your kids about the stories, history, culture, and art of African-Americans. In Westchester, you and your kids will find tons of events, talks, plays, and exhibits as a way to amplify and better understand the stories of Black Americans. Read on to check out our list of Black History Month events happening throughout Westchester.
Psst…check out our list of 2024 MLK Jr. Day Volunteer Opportunities, Events, and Activities in Westchester
Thursday, February 1st-Thursday, February 29th
Black Artists in the Spotlight: Currents of Creativity
This Black History Month visit the Rye Artist Center for their special in-person exhibit. Here, you will enjoy an exhibition dedicated to highlighting emerging and established Black artists. Curated by Kicki Storm, this includes the works of Joseph A. Abu, Evan Bishop, Anthony Boone, Brian Cannady II, Emlyn Taveras, and much more. Additional events includes a Jazz Concert on February 2nd and an artist talk on February 10th. 51 Milton Rd. Rye, NY 10580
Thursday, February 1st-Wednesday, February 28th
Black History Month Art Exhibit
Visit the Tarrytown Warner Library to see this Annual Black History Month Art Exhibit. Firstly, the event is free and will be on display for the whole month of February. Secondly, enjoy live music from Jazz Pianist Donovon Vernon on February 3rd. Plus, artists Ron Brown, Ella Hall, and Donald H. Whitely will be in the gallery for a reception and viewing of their work. The Warner Library, 121 N. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY.
Thursday, February 1st-Wednesday, February 28th from 10:00am-4:00pm
Perspectives: An Invitational Exhibition Celebrating Black History Month by Clay Art Center Artists
Attend ‘Perspectives: An Invitational Exhibition Celebrating Black History Month.’ This features the works of Clay Art Center artists Earlene Cox and Gloria Nixon-Crouch. Firstly, this delves into the realms of human experience, identity, and fragility. Additionally, all are invited to attend the ‘Meet the Artists’ event. This is held on Friday, February 16th from 12:00pm-2:00 pm.
February, 2nd-March 8th; Opening on February 2nd from 7:00pm-9:00pm
Monday-Friday 10am-4pm; Saturdays (February 3, 10, 17, 24, Mar 2) 10am-4pm; Closed Sundays
Black History & Culture: BLACK PRESENCE. PROFOUND INFLUENCE
Visit the Bethany Arts Community for their 4th annual Black History Month exhibit. This includes oral history and genealogical research about the histories of Black entrepreneurs and Black organizations. Additionally, programming throughout the month includes a play, talks, and living museum actors. Bethany Arts Community, 40 Somerstown Rd, Ossining, NY.
Friday, February 3rd-Thursday, February 29th
Black History Month Activity Station
Visit the Yonkers Public Library for crafts, activities, and games about Black History Month. Will Library, Children’s Room, 1500 Central Park Avenue Yonkers, NY 10710
Saturday, February 4th from 3:30pm-4:30pm
Bokandeye African Dance Workshop
Attend a six-week African Dance workshop where kids can learn traditional West African dance. Designed for kids, teens, and adults, the workshop ends in a final performance. Finally, register online or call 914-813-3706. New Rochelle Public Library, 1 Library Plaza, New Rochelle, NY 10801.
Monday, February 5th from 7:00pm-8:00pm
Madam C.J. Walker: The First Black Female Millionaire (Virtual)
Participate in this virtual event to learn more about Madam C.J. Walker, the first Black female millionaire. Incredibly, Madam C.J. Walker was born to former slaves. She rose to fame when she created beauty care products for Black women. Additionally, registration is free. Click here to sign up.
Monday, February 12th from 10:30am-12:00pm
Art Styles From Around The World – African American Artists
Enjoy a morning of art in celebration of Black History Month. Join Kören Beck who will share about contemporary African American artists. Additionally, attendees will have the chance to draw. This can be based on the work of exhibited artists or as they wish. 54 Olmsted Rd, Scarsdale, NY 10583.
Monday, February 12th at 6:00pm
Black History Month
Attend the Westchester County Government’s Black History Month event with Executive George Latimer. Michaelian Office Building, 9th Floor, 148 Martine Ave, White Plains, NY 10601,
Friday, February 16th – Sunday, February 25th
The Execution of Helen Ray Fowler
Attend this powerful play highlighting the life of Helen Ray Fowler who ran boarding house when her husband was drafted into WWII. However, when she takes in George Knight a series of bad decisions results in his death. Horrifically, she was sent to Sing Sing. She became the only Black woman legally executed in New York. Finally, tickets are $30 per person and $25 per senior/student. 40 Somerstown Rd. Ossining, NY 1056.
Saturday, February 17th from 2:00pm-3:00pm
Black History Month-African Performance with Amanda Armenteros
Join Amanda Armenteros for a traditional West African Dance class. Firstly, learn about the origin and history of this dance and rhythms/ Finally, learn more about the stories behind the movements. White Plains Public Library, 100 Martine Ave, White Plains, NY 10601.
Monday, February 19th from 2:00pm-3:30pm
Little Critics Book Club: Black History
Kids (ages 6-12 years old) are invited to read picture books by African-American authors and illustrators. Free. Ossining Public Library, 53 Croton Ave, Ossining, NY 10562.
Tuesday, February 20th from 2:00pm-3:30pm
Trivia Tuesday: Black History Edition
Kids (ages 8-12 years old) are invited to participate in Trivia Tuesday. Additionally, enjoy rapid fire questions as you learn more about Black History. Ossining Public Library, 53 Croton Ave, Ossining, NY 10562.
Saturday, February 24th from 10:00am-12:00pm
Revolutionary Blacks: Discovering the Frank Brothers, Freeborn Men of Color, Soldiers of Independence
Attend this informative talk led by Dr. Shirley L. Green. Here, she will share more about the lives of William and Benjamin Frank. They were two brothers who enlisted during the American Revolutionary War. Plus, listen to a discussion about the difference between free blacks in military service as well as those who were enslaved during this time. 1500 Central Park Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10710
Wednesday, February 28th at 6:00pm
Walk & Talk Tour with Curator Joyce Sharrock-Cole – Black History & Culture: BLACK PRESENCE. PROFOUND INFLUENCE
Participate in this immersive and educational exhibit. Led by curator Joyce Sharrock Cole, the exhibit features oral history accounts and genealogical research. Plus, learn more about the history of Black entrepreneurs and Black organizations. 40 Somerstown Rd. Ossining, NY 10562
