February is Black History Month (and Lunar New Year), a time to celebrate the achievements, contributions, culture, and history of African Americans. Conceived 100 years ago as Negro History Week by educator, Carter G. Woodson, it encouraged the teaching of African American history in public schools. After the Civil Rights movement of the 1960’s, it evolved into the month-long designation that we have today.

Black History Month is crucial for recognizing African Americans’ pivotal contributions to American society. It celebrates their accomplishments and resilience, while educating people about their history. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to challenge racial biases, and foster unity and understanding among people of different backgrounds.

Black History Month Activities Around the Greater Main Line Region

Want to find ways to participate in Black History Month with your family? We’ve curated a list of events, presentations, and community activities throughout the month of February, to enrich your family’s understanding of Black culture and history.

History Maker Saturdays & Storytelling Sundays

The Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch St., Philadelphia
Saturdays and Sundays in February, from 11 am – 3 pm

Venture to Philadelphia’s Betsy Ross House to visit the museum and hear true stories of the City’s Free Black community from the 18th Century. Visitors may learn about the life of Ona Judge, former slave to George Washington’s family, or Margaret Woodby, an 18th Century baker and shop owner in Philadelphia. These informative Black History Month presentations are free to museum visitors.

Harriet Movie Screening

Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center, 226 N. High Street, West Chester
February 2, at 7 pm

In honor of Black History Month, head to West Chester’s Uotown Knauer Performing Arts Center for a screening of Harriet, starring Cynthia Erivo, Janelle Monáe and Leslie Odom Jr. This film chronicles the extraordinary life of Harriet Tubman, from her escape from slavery to her incredible efforts to free others. Get inspired by the bravery and strength of this American hero and her impact on our nation’s history. This film is rated PG-13 and runs for 2 hours and 5 minutes. Tickets are $7.

Teen & Tween Art Club Making Kimmy Cantrell Masks (2 day event)

West Chester Public Library, 415 N. Church St., West Chester
February 3 and 5, from 4:30 – 6 pm both days

Teens and tweens are welcomed to the West Chester Public Library for a two-day art workshop exploring the works of African American ceramic and mixed media artist, Kimmy Cantrell. Participants will create their own versions of the artist’s famous masks, complete with bright colors and distinctive designs. Registration is required.

African American Children’s Book Fair 2026

Pennsylvania Convention Center, 13th and Arch Street West, Philadelphia
February 7, from 1 – 4 pm

Calling all book lovers — join one of the nation’s oldest and largest single-day celebrations of Black children’s literature! The African American Children’s Book Fair has established Philadelphia as a premier destination for diverse stories and young readers. This free event features award-winning authors and illustrators who will sign books and bring their stories to life through presentations. Browse and purchase from a wide selection of affordable Black children’s books spanning preschool through young adult readers. Enjoy free giveaways, prizes, and interactive games throughout the day.

Crafternoon: Exploring the Art of Alma Thomas

West Chester Public Library, 415 N. Church St., West Chester
February 16, from 1 – 2:30 pm

Learn about African American artist Alma Thomas and enjoy a read-aloud of Ablaze with Color: The Story of Painter Alma Thomas by Jeanne Walker Harvey. Following story time, create your own artwork inspired by Thomas’s vibrant style. This creative program is designed for children ages 5 and up. Registration is required and begins on 2/9/26.

Black History Month STEM Workshop: Innovate, Engineer, Elevate

Upper Merion Township Library, 175 W. Valley Forge Rd., King of Prussia
February 21, from 11 am – noon

Celebrate Black History Month in Montco with an exciting afternoon of hands-on STEM activities! Students and young creators will explore engineering, robotics, and innovation while learning about African American pioneers who transformed aerospace and technology. Build your own working robot with special guest “Stevie the Inventor,” who makes robotics fun and easy to understand. This hands-on workshop welcomes children ages 7-12 of all skill levels and encourages creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. Registration is required.

African American Inventors Showcase

Avon Grove Library, 117 Rosehill Avenue, West Grove
February 23, from 4 – 5 pm

Join Avon Grove Library for a hands-on, family-friendly program that introduces kids to African American inventors who shaped the world around us. Children will explore history through creative activities, including making their own traffic lights inspired by Garrett Morgan and preparing peanut butter treats in honor of George Washington Carver. This engaging event is perfect for curious young learners who enjoy discovering, creating, and having fun.

Black History Month Activities To Do at Home

Black History Month is a great time to listen, reflect, and learn at home through powerful personal stories and resources that bring history and lived experiences to life. Check out some of our suggestions for ways to honor Black History month in your own home.

• Explore the featured Stories to Celebrate Black History Month on Story Corps. This non-profit media organization helps real people tell their story through audio stories, podcast episodes, and animated shorts.
• Visit National Geographic Kids and read the story of Black History Month, which also highlights important African American heroes of the past and present.
• PBS offers several online resources for families on topics such as talking to children about racism and How Black Art Can Spark Conversations With Children.
• Sit down together as a family and watch videos that tell the stories of Black Americans who made important contributions to racial justice. The website We Were Teachers has compiled 60+ Black History Videos Everyone Should Watch, categorized for elementary and middle and high school students.

February is Black History Month

From hands-on workshops to inspiring stories, events, and activities, the Main Line area has a rich lineup of Black History Month events for all ages. Be sure to join the celebration and deepen your connection to the history, creativity, and contributions of Black artists, innovators, and community leaders this February.

Find family-friendly events for every day of the week in the Main Line Parent Calendar!

Becky Ormsbee contributed to this article. Lead image by Nazeer Sabree, courtesy of Paradigm Gallery, Philadelphia.

Lead image by Nazeer Sabree, courtesy of Paradigm Gallery, Philadelphia