Celebrate Black History Month in Minneapolis
Black History Month is a time to reflect on the past, present and future of the Black experience throughout history. In Minneapolis we have many different ways to celebrate and learn about Black culture all month long. From special events and discussions to musical performances, museum exhibits and more, here are some ideas for things to do during Black History Month.
Museums/Exhibits
Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery
This museum is dedicated to celebrating the history of African Americans by giving visitors a look at the achievements, contributions and experiences of Black people throughout the history of Minnesota.
Unbreakable
Celebrate the resilience of African Americans in Minnesota with this exhibit which explores African American early settlers and pioneers in the 1800s. Here you can learn about the struggles and successes of African Americans who moved to Minnesota from the South during the "Great Migration."
Somali Museum of Minnesota
The Somali Museum of Minnesota celebrates the traditions and heritage of the Somali people in a collection of more than 700 pieces of craftwork, paintings and sculptures, ranging from nomadic objects and a model nomad’s hut to contemporary art. This space gives young Somalis who have grown up in the United States a way to connect with their culture, as well as Minnesotans of other ethnic heritage to encounter Somali art and traditional culture for the first time.
Local Black-Owned Businesses
Black-owned businesses need your support and Minneapolis is filled with plenty of opportunities to do so.
Events
Check back soon for more events happening during Black History Month in Minneapolis!
February 5, 2026
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Celebrate Black history at Mia! Lean into the power of poetry and watercolor with writer, teaching artist, and curator Dralandra Larkins in Mia’s studios. Enjoy a concert from Obi Original and the Black Atlantics in Mia’s Regis Court. Explore Mia’s galleries with special tours that highlight Black artists in Mia’s collection.
February 5, 2026
6pm - 7pm
Minneapolis Art Institute
The Friends Lecture Committee presents “The Art of Poetry, the Voices to Hear,” an evening with award-winning poet Michael Kleber-Diggs in conversation with Daniel Slager, Milkweed Editions publisher and CEO.
Enjoy a thoughtful conversation about the place for marginalized voices in today’s publishing landscape. We look forward to welcoming these literary leaders as they share their expertise.
After the lecture, join us for a book signing.
February 7, 2026
10am-12pm
MacPhail Center for Music
Celebrate Black History Month through music that uplifts, honors, and inspires. This special MacPhail Student Performance Festival features students of all ages, instruments, and programs performing works that celebrate the contributions of Black composers, artists, and musical traditions. Throughout the day, our downtown Minneapolis campus comes alive with performances that showcase learning, creativity, and community—reflecting the rich diversity of MacPhail’s students and the music that moves us all.
February 14, 2026
2pm - 7pm
The Lab
The Black Market is a marketplace where people may sell and purchase goods, learn about services, connect with community, enjoy live entertainment, and, taste a multitude of foods from around the cities. Our mission is to assist in increasing the visibility of black-owned businesses in MN. We provide a vibrant, unique space for community to gather, eat, shop, and connect. From shopping to family fun, The Black Market has it all!
February 14, 2026
9:30pm
The Dakota
“All Sweet Things: A Celebration of Black Love” explores the passion, emotions, social depictions and challenges of modern relationships. Here, they do this through the
diverse sonic landscapes of R&B, neo-soul, folk and pop music. This celebratory experience showcases the extraordinary vocal, songwriting and arranging prowess of three of the Twin Cities’ most soulful singers!!
February 20, 2026
7:30pm - 9pm
Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
Music for Martin brings the Grammy Award–winning Sounds of Blackness back to the Ordway with one of their most powerful and enduring original works. First premiering on our stage in January 1988, this production was created, arranged, and produced by Gary Hines, Music Director of Sounds of Blackness, specifically for a performance at the Ordway. It weaves together music, narration, and visual elements to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Febuary 21, 2026
11am-3:00pm
Sabathani Community Center
Join us for the Sabathani Wall Street Market, a vibrant community gathering celebrating Black History Month and honoring the historic legacy of the 38th Street Corridor—once known as Black Wall Street.
This annual market uplifts local Black-owned businesses, connects community members with valuable resources, and reflects Sabathani Community Center’s ongoing commitment to community wealth-building, connection, and opportunity.
February 22, 2026
4pm - 6:30pm
Northrop
Lift your voice and sing for justice as VocalEssence presents songs of resilience and resistance that inspire us to continue the march towards freedom and racial reconciliation. Hear the rhythmic cry for freedom found in The Justice Symphony by Damien Geter, featuring anthems from the Civil Rights era. Experience the poignant and beautiful sounds of the Negro spiritual in the world premiere performance of two newly commissioned settings by B.E. Boykin.
