February is Black History Month and Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, has always held tight to its roots in African American history. The city dons this responsibility with pride and has opened its arms to Black musicians, business owners, and artists from all corners of the globe.
In honor of Black History Month, Philly PR Girl strives to celebrate and amplify Philadelphia’s Black voices by sharing the city’s upcoming events and exhibitions with our readers! We have gathered some great ideas for you and your loved ones to acknowledge and observe Philly’s rich African American history this month.
Black History Month on Display
Commonly known as the “birthplace of America,” Philadelphia is notorious for its wide variety of historic sites, museums, and exhibitions. This Black History Month, you can visit any number of exhibitions to celebrate the city’s African American background and culture. Here are a few recommendations that showcase the Black community’s narrative and experience.
- Black History Month Showcase at the Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia – Philadelphia’s Hyatt Centric Center City Hotel is set to host their first annual “Black History Month Showcase,” where they will display local Black artists’ creations, paintings, textiles, and photographs. The showcase is free and open to the public.
- Rising Sun: Artists in an Uncertain America at the African American Museum in Philadelphia- In the African American Museum in Philadelphia’s new collaborative exhibition, 20 artists from the surrounding area answer the question: “Is the sun rising or setting on the experiment of American democracy?” See how the artists interpret their answers by way of video installations, sculptures, and more when you plan your next visit!
- 50 Years of Hip Hop: Art, Music, Power at the National Liberty Museum- Venture through the artistry, music, and culture of the hip-hop genre and learn about its influence on Black history when you visit this National Liberty Museum exhibit.
Read All About It!
Throughout history, stories and lessons have been passed down from generation to generation through written words. This month, dive into the stories of the past from some of history’s most famous Black authors.
- Little Free(dom) Libraries- “Borrow” a banned book from a Black author free of charge and explore the stories and narratives of African American history when you stop by any of the 13 institutions participating in Visit Philadelphia’s Little Free(dom) Library initiative.
- African American Children’s Book Fair at the Pennsylvania Convention Center- On Saturday, Feb. 3, the Pennsylvania Convention Center is set to host the 32nd Annual African American Children’s Book Fair, reigning in as one of the oldest and largest events for African American children’s books in the United States. This free public event provides children with stories about the Black community that are told in a playful and comprehensive light.
- Langston Hughes, Alain Le Roy Locke, and the Harlem Renaissance at the Rosenbach- This specialty tour features and highlights works from some of history’s most prominent Black musicians, writers, and artists. Observe and read early texts from Harlem Renaissance icon and author, Langston Hughes, explore the thoughts and ideations of philosopher Alain LeRoy Locke, and more. Tickets may be purchased here.
Food: It’s Good For the Soul
While Philadelphia is often famous for its landmarks and sports teams, the city’s food definitely deserves its own claim to fame. Take a look at some of the best eateries to enjoy traditional African American cuisine and dining this month!
- Black History Month Lunch and Dinner Menu at Red Owl Tavern- Red Owl chefs Ron Hicks, Phillip Kizer, Morgan Revell, and Rasheen Young have joined together and crafted a specialty lunch and dinner menu to showcase the traditional Black culinary experience. Enjoy dishes such as pan-fried salmon cakes, black-eyed peas, collard greens, and more for a fixed price of $30 for lunch and $40 for dinner.
- Black History Month Events at Attic Brewing Co.- Just a little way outside Center City is Attic Brewing Co., a distillery located in Germantown. This month, Attic Brewing Co. has provided visitors with countless programs and events to celebrate the month. Some of these pop-ups include specialty drinks (ie. the release of the “Black is Beautiful” Vol. II IPA), live performances from Black artists and musicians, and a “Black Beer Drinkers Party” made free to the public.
- Mom Mom’s Soul Food Pop-Up at The Dutch- On Monday, Feb. 19, for one night and one night only, The Dutch will be serving its patrons a classic menu of soul food dishes inspired by Mom Mom herself, the executive chef’s loving grandmother. Reservations are required to attend. Book your table here.
Take Center Stage
Alongside the hustle and bustle of Philly’s packed streets is a glowing community for the arts. Actors, musicians, dancers, and performers will be taking the stage all month long to retell the stories of their ancestors. Take a look at some of the city’s most anticipated performances of this month!
- Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at the Academy of Music- Explore the Black narrative through the lens of modern dance when you attend the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s African American cultural experience. The performance will include Revelations, a renowned showcase highlighting the beauty of Black culture while set to spirituals, gospel music, and blues.
- The Drunk Black History Show with Gordon Baker-Bone- Join World Cafe Live on Saturday, Feb. 17 for a night of reminiscence and laughter as comedian and MTV writer Gordon Baker-Bone, along with the help of a couple tipsy special guest stars, recounts the stories and lives of some of history’s most notable Black figures. Food and beverages are set on a “pay as you go” basis and all ticket purchases can be made here.
- A Raisin in the Sun at Bristol Riverside Theatre- Last but certainly not least, take a trip over to the Bristol Riverside Theatre to experience Lorraine Hansberry’s critically acclaimed play, “A Raisin in the Sun.” The production tells the story of a Black family living in 1950s Chicago and the insurance check that changes their lives. Tickets may be purchased here.
There are so many sights and sounds to experience this Black History Month, so you’d better start planning now! Stay tuned to learn more about Philadelphia’s Black creators and Black-owned businesses and restaurants later this month.
