Black History Month celebrations are vibrant in Los Angeles and surrounding areas for 2026. February offers numerous activities. These events honor African American history and culture. Many are free and family-friendly.
Here’s a guide to powerful ways to celebrate Black History Month across Los Angeles in 2026:
Major Festivals and Parades
The 46th Annual OC Black History Parade & Community Festival happens on Saturday, February 7, 2026. The parade starts at 10 AM. The festival follows from 12 PM to 4 PM. Expect live entertainment and vendors. This event celebrates African American culture.
Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park hosts its annual Black History Month Festival on February 7, 2026. This historic town was founded by African Americans. The festival features food, music, and historical information. Gold Runner trains offer special fares to the park for this event.
The 10th Annual LA Black History Month Festival takes place at the La Brea Tar Pits on February 21, 2026. This festival includes a health fair. It also features a marketplace and notable speakers.
In Riverside, the Black History Expo & Parade is on Saturday, February 14, 2026. This long-standing event honors African American achievements. It features floats, bands, and dancers. An expo follows with vendors and entertainment.
Cultural Programming Across Los Angeles County
LA County Parks presents month-long free community events from February 5-28, 2026. These events span 59 parks countywide. Programming includes live music and art workshops. Storytelling and wellness sessions are also featured. These activities celebrate Black history and culture. They encourage intergenerational participation.
Art, Exhibits, and Talks
The California African American Museum (CAAM) hosts several events. On February 5, 2026, LA Opera presents “An Ode to Black Opera”. This event celebrates Black composers. On February 7, cultural critic Tre Johnson discusses his book “Black Genius”. He will speak with writer Mara Brock Akil. On February 18, CAAM features a conversation about Octavia E. Butler.
Los Angeles City Hall presents the “When Black Women Lead” gallery exhibition through February 24, 2026. This exhibit highlights Black women leaders in the city.
The Museum of African American Art (MAAA) in Los Angeles continues its 50th-anniversary exhibitions throughout 2026. These showcase works from its permanent collection.
LA Trade-Technical College (LATTC) opens its Black History Museum on February 11, 2026. This museum celebrates African American history and art.
Film and Performance
The Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) runs from February 7 to February 22, 2026, in Los Angeles. It showcases Black and African storytelling through film and art. This festival is known as the largest Black film festival in the U.S..
Forest Lawn–Glendale hosts a Black History Month event on January 31, 2026. This features music, dance, and poetry. A community resource fair also takes place.
Community and Outdoors
The Soul Steppers Walking Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays in Los Angeles. This offers a way to connect and get active. On February 14, a Black Connections to Nature Community Hike happens in Glendora. This event celebrates Black leadership in nature.
Supporting Black-Owned Businesses
Throughout February, support Black-owned businesses across Los Angeles. Many festivals and markets feature local vendors. These businesses contribute to the vibrant culture of the city.
These diverse activities offer many ways to learn and celebrate during Black History Month in Los Angeles.
