The Ultimate Guide to Celebrating Black History Month in Chicago

PhotoBlack Souls Welcome showcase in 2023.
Celebrate Black History Month with Columbia College Chicago and around the city

Happy Black History Month! This is a special time when we celebrate the many important contributions that African Americans have made to our world. From trailblazing leaders and activists to artists, inventors, and innovators, Black history is an integral part of the global story. Let's take this opportunity to reflect on and honor African American history and culture. 

There are a variety of events taking place on and off campus around the City of Chicago that offer unique opportunities for people to engage with Black history and culture. Whether it's attending a guest lecture, participating in a workshop, or exploring an exhibition, there are endless ways to get involved. We encourage everyone to take advantage of these events and to learn more about the rich and diverse history of Black people, their struggles, triumphs, and ongoing contributions to society. 

Black History Month Events at Columbia College Chicago  

  •  THE CULTURE: Community Town Hall Mixer 
    • Date and Time: February 5 from 6 - 8:00 p.m. 
    • Location: 623 S Wabash – Haus 
    • Cost: Free  
    • Special Features: Black faculty and student night mixer, special performers, and a talk-back session. 
  •  Black Souls Welcome Art Showcase  
    • Date and Time: February 12 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Opening Reception 
    • Location: Student Center 5th Floor, 754 S Wabash Ave, Chicago*The showcase will be open through February 23  
    • Cost: Free  
  • The Black Carpet Showcase
    • Date and Time: February 17 
    • Location: Student Center, 754 S Wabash Ave, Chicago 
    • Cost: Free
    • Special Features: Hosted by the Black Artistry Chapter also known as BAC is an organization that was created by Columbia students. BAC host events that gives black creatives at Columbia a space to be heard and celebrated.

Black History Month Events in Chicago  

  • Black History Month Skate  
    • Date and Time: February 1 from 5-8 p.m.  
    • Location: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park & Family Entertainment Center, 1219 W. 76th St., Chicago 
    • Cost: $10 (Skate Rental: $4)  
  • The Shops - Black History Month Edition Pop-up 
    • Date and Time: February 18 from 12-6 p.m. 
    • Location: Water Tower Place (Level 3 Next to JJill and White House Black Market) 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago 
    • Cost: Free 
  • Family Event | Black History Month 
    • Date and Time: February 24 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 
    • Location: Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St.  
      Chicago 
    • Cost: General Admission - Adults: $19 Students: $17 Children under 13: Free  

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