Celebrate Black History Month in the Champaign-Urbana Area
February marks the beginning of Black History Month, a time to honor the contributions and rich cultural heritage of African Americans. From running the oldest business district in the City of Champaign to the first all-Black fighter squadron, known as the 99th Pursuit Squadron, who would later be known as the Tuskegee Airmen, African-Americans directly shaped the place we call home. This month is embraced with a variety of events and celebrations that highlight our community’s vibrant history and ongoing impact.
Do you know of an event specifically geared towards Black History Month in the Champaign-Urbana area? Let us know by emailing marcusf@experiencecu.org!
Last updated: 1/29/2025
ILLINOIS SOUL CELEBRATES ONE INCREDIBLE YEAR - FEBRUARY 1ST
In 2024, Illinois Public Media launched Illinois Soul, a new radio station serving the Black community, to “amplify Black voices, music, and culture throughout central Illinois.” On February 1st, come enjoy a free pre-performance reception at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts at 5:30pm with R&B music, appetizers, cash bar, and giveaways, followed by a ticketed concert featuring a national recording artist!
LEARN ABOUT THE AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE TRAIL
The Champaign County African American Heritage Trail is an excellent resource for all ages—through Reconstruction and the Great Migration, through the Depression and two world wars, through the Civil Rights era right up to the present day. Discover over 170+ years of history and learn about the powerful stories of African Americans who directly shaped the place we call home.
Celebrate Black History Month with Parkland College
Parkland College will observe Black History Month in February with month-long events. With the theme "African Americans and Labor," the college will explore historical and contemporary African American accomplishments! Events are open to the public unless otherwise noted.
DIY Kids | Black History Bingo
Where: Douglass Branch Library (504 E Grove St., Champaign)
When: February 7, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Learn about famous people, places, and events in Black History by making your own bingo card and playing together at our weekly do-it-yourself activity for kids!
UFLive! presents Afro D & the Global Soundwaves at the Urbana Free Library
When: Sunday, February 09: 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Where: The Urbana Free Library - Busey-Mills Reading Room
Celebrate Black History Month with live music for all ages!
Young Artist's Studio: What's Your Story? with Nika Lucks
When: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Where: Urbana Free Library
Join Artist-in-Residence Nika Lucks to make your life into a collage story between the covers of a book in this free-for-all-ages workshop! Nika is a self-described multi-dimensional artist, photo artist, graphic designer, and crafter in the Champaign-Urbana area.
KRANNERT UNCORKED WITH ILLINOIS SOUL
When: Every Thursday at 5:00pm
Where: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
Krannert Uncorked is a great opportunity to connect with your favorite local and regional artists in a cozy, intimate atmosphere. All five Uncorked events in February will be presented in collaboration with Illinois Soul 101.1 FM in celebration of Black History Month! Every Thursday in February, Krannert Center will showcase some of the best local and regional musicians on Stage 5 in the Krannert Center lobby.
BLACK CHAMPAIGN COUNTY
Through events, live music and history, the Champaign-Urbana area is rich in Black culture. Home to many Black-owned businesses from restaurants to shops, you can listen to live music, pick up a sweet treat, enjoy some barbecue and go shopping all while supporting our Black-owned business owners. Discover their brilliant storefronts by visiting our Black Champaign County business directory here!
Do you know of an event specifically geared towards Black History Month in the Champaign-Urbana area? Let us know by emailing marcusf@experiencecu.org!