There is no doubt that African Americans played an integral part in developing Houston. Their contributions to art, science, literature and business are celebrated throughout the city this February during Black History Month. Most events are suitable for children and adults alike and there are many opportunities to learn while having fun and being entertained. There are several Black History Month events hosted in Houston. Below are a few of the must see Black History Month events in Houston:
Buffalo Soldiers Museum
When: All of February. Monday through Friday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Admission: $2.00 per person
Black History Month events would not be complete without a trip to the Buffalo Soldiers Museum. In 1866, six African American Army units were formed. These were the first African American troops to serve during a time of peace. Honor the memory of the brave soldiers who fought or died serving their country. Exhibits feature the history of Buffalo Soldiers, exhibits and artifacts as well as pictures. If you haven’t seen this fascinating exhibit, take time during Black History Month to do so.
Ensemble Theater
When: February 1 – 22, 2:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 7:00 pm & 8:00 pm. See website for exact show times and dates
Admission: $10.00 – $45.00 per person. Contact box office for more information
The play, The Man who Saved New Orleans, is one of the Black History Month events in Houston that should not be missed. Enjoy a fabulous performance relating the story of one African American family’s struggle through Hurricane Katrina. This premier event takes you through the journey of a family uprooted from their home and having to live in Houston due to the Katrina devastation. This play is rated PG and will be fun and educational for the entire family.
Houston Public Library
When: All of February. See website for specific dates and locations for the many Black History Month events.
Admission: Free
Join the Houston Public Library in Celebrating Black History Month. There are many different events and workshops being held across the city for people of all ages. Some Black History Month events include performances and information on African American music and dance, readings from slave diaries, black cinema, readings from black authors and poets, children’s story time, crafts and African American history discussions. Influential African American leaders will be available to host Black History month events in Houston at public library branches throughout the city.
The Museum of Fine Arts Houston
When: All of February. See Calendar for information on presentations and exhibits
Admission: Free on Thursdays, $7.00 other days. Some exhibits may incur additional fees. Check the website for details.
The Museum of Fine Arts Houston celebrates Black History Month events with a variety of exhibits designed to commemorate African American’s contribution to art in America. Various artists and art forms are explored through exhibits and special tours. Don’t miss a special cinematic viewing of Buffalo Soldiers Mutiny: Houston 1917 on February 21st and 22nd. Discover what life is like in Houston’s Third Ward with the exhibit Eye on Third Ward: Yates Magnet School Photography. These fascinating and educational exhibits are suitable for all ages.
African American Art Advisory Association (Five-A)
When: All of February
Admission: Free
Five-A is exhibiting the works of local African American artists around the city of Houston. Look for these Black History Month events at the ExxonMobil Building, the Houston Area Urban League, the Houston City Hall Annex, the Houston Public Library Downtown Branch, the Ley Student Center at Rice University, the Pennzoil-Quaker State Building, Prairie View A&M College of Nursing, and the Robert J. Terry Library at Texas Southern University. You can support the continuation of local African American artist’s influence on the Houston and global art world. Exhibits are suitable for both children and adults.
