Black History Month honors the contributions of African Americans to United States history. It was first created as a week-long celebration in 1926, and became a month-long celebration in 1976. It takes place in the month of February to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.
There is a lot to be celebrated in this historic month, including the founding of the NAACP and other famous firsts in the African American community. And in Gwinnett, there are several ways you can acknowledge these achievements.
The Many Lives of Andrew Young Exhibit Feb.1, 2025 - March 31, 2025 @ The Lawrenceville Arts Center
The Many Lives of Andrew Young exhibit celebrates the extraordinary journey of one of America’s most influential civil rights leaders and public servants.
Norcross Connect: Black History Feb. 5, 2025 @ Gwinnett Public Library-Norcross Branch
Celebrate the work of African-American artist Lois Mailou Jones and her black oil pastel mask creations.
Jazz Legacy Project: A Tribute to Nancy Wilson feat. Karla Harris Feb. 5, 2025 @ Eddie Owen Presents
Enjoy a tribute to Nancy Wilson with Karla Harris, spinning vinyl records and sharing stories about the artists’ creative journeys and music inspirations.
African American Culinary Heritage Feb. 8, 2025 @ Gwinnett Public Library-Hamilton Mill Branch
Discover the rich history of African-American culinary traditions through hands-on learning.
Author Talk | Let's Celebrate Black History Month Feb. 8, 2025 @ Gwinnett Public Library-Lilburn Branch
Join author Cicely Lewis for a reading from her "Hair Magic" series, celebrating Black hair culture.
A Taste of Black Gwinnett - Black History 2025 Edition Feb. 9, 2025 @ Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center
Enjoy food, live music, and cultural performances honoring Black heritage.
Culturally Black Game Night Feb. 13, 2025 @ Gwinnett Public Library-Centerville Branch
Celebrate Black culture through fun, interactive games.
African-American Folktales Feb. 15, 2025 @ The Lawrenceville Arts Center
Enjoy the storytelling of Chetter Galloway as he brings African-American folktales to life.
Black History Art, Culture, & Education Celebration Feb. 16, 2025 @ The Lawrenceville Arts Center
Celebrate youth artists as they showcase their work in honor of Black History Month.
A Conversation with Andrew Young Feb. 17, 2025 @ The Lawrenceville Arts Center
Join Ambassador Andrew Young for a fireside chat with journalist Ernie Suggs, exploring his journey from the Civil Rights Movement to the global stage. Tickets: $40.
2025 Black History Month Heritage Night Celebration Feb. 19, 2025 @ Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center
Join a community celebration with live performances and speakers honoring Black history.
Tuskegee Airman: The Men Who Refused to be Washed Out Feb. 19-20, 2025 @ The Lawrenceville Arts Center home of the Aurora Theatre
Learn about the brave Tuskegee Airmen who fought for their place in history during WWII.
Bits and Pieces by Gerald E. Burch Feb. 21, 2025 @ Sugar Hill Museum & Art Gallery
Explore the impactful art of Gerald E. Burch, reflecting on Black culture and history.
Greenwood Culture Fest Feb. 22, 2025 @ Lucky Shoals Park
Celebrate Black History Month with music, food, and a parade honoring African-American culture.
Black Heritage Festival Feb. 22, 2025 @ Shorty Howell Park
Enjoy live entertainment and community performances at this family-friendly celebration of Black history.
4th Annual Blackout Market & Open-Mic Night Feb. 22, 2025 @ The Lawrenceville Arts Center home of the Aurora Theatre
Attend an open-mic night and market showcasing Black talent and creativity.
Looking for other ways to celebrate? Support these local Black owned businesses or take a short trip to Atlanta to visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.