Here are our top picks for celebrating Black History Month in Columbus
Black History Month is here and there are plenty of events around Columbus designed to honor the incredible contributions of African Americans.
Southern history and culture is inextricably linked to that of Black people and the slate of activities around town reflect the unique, often complicated shared history.
Whether you want a bawdy stage play, to fellowship with a U.S. congresswoman or to take a walking tour through history, Columbus has you covered on the Black History front.
A little history
The observation of Black History Month originated from the efforts of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, an author and historian who sought to celebrate the contributions of African Americans to U.S. history.
In February, 1926, Woodson initiated the first “Negro History Week.” He chose this week because it included the birthdays of both Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two significant figures in African American history.
In 1976, during the nation’s bicentennial, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month and since then, every U.S. president has issued proclamations for Black History Month.
The celebration has spread to other countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands.
Black History Month Pop-Up Concert: Columbus Cultural Orchestra
Description: A multi-generational collective of musicians of color performing jazz, classical and hip-hop music.
Time and place: Columbus Museum of Art, Sunday, Feb. 16, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Attendance is free, but you can visit the CoMu website to reserve a spot.
Black History Month Party
Description: A celebration featuring music, games, food and prizes to honor African American history.
Time and place: Oak Street Health Columbus, 4561 River Road, Wednesday, Feb. 19, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
(706) 478-5717
No cost to attend
The Black History Month Pop-up Concert featuring the Columbus Cultural Orchestra
Description: A collective of multi-generational musicians of color performing high-quality jazz, classical, and hip-hop music
TIme and Place: Columbus Museum, Sunday, Feb. 16, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
No cost to attend
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Description: A powerful August Wilson play set in 1927, exploring the struggles of Ma Rainey, the Mother of the Blues, against the backdrop of racism and exploitation in the music industry. Due to mature themes and content, it’s not recommended for children under 12.
Time and place: Springer Opera House, Emily Woodruff Hall, Columbus, Sunday, Jan. 23, to Sunday, Feb. 2.
Tickets range from $90 to $95
Columbus Black Heritage Trail
Description: A comprehensive urban trail highlighting 30 African American heritage landmarks throughout downtown and midtown Columbus.
Time and place: The trail begins at the Muscogee County School District (Macon and Rigdon Road). Self-guided tours available daily; for detailed tour information, contact Columbus, Georgia, Tours/Vicinity Tours.
Black History Month Breakfast
Description: Organized by the Black History Month Observance Committee, this year’s event will bring together community members, leaders and special guests to honor the rich history and contributions of Black Americans. the breakfast will feature keynote speaker U.S. Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas).
Time and place: Columbus Convention and Trade Center, Monday, Feb. 17, at 7 a.m.
To purchase tickets, call or email Herman Lewis at (706) 405-0107 or herman.lewis@hotmail.com.
I want to celebrate with you guys. Send me your snaps and stores. Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on Instagram.
This story was originally published February 11, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
