Black History Month 2024: Events, celebrations, movies and more in metro Phoenix (2024)

February is Black History Month and metro Phoenix is gearing up for a series of events that celebrate the rich and diverse contributions of the Black community.

The theme for Black History Month 2024 is African Americans and the Arts,according to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, the founders of Black History Month.

From the dynamic Black History Celebration presented by the South Chandler Self-Help Foundation to the gathering in Maricopa of renowned artists and community leaders discussing Black contributions to the world, there's something for everyone.

These events entertain and educate, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the significant impact of Black history and culture.

Here are Black History Month 2024 events in Phoenix, Glendale, Chandler, Tempe and more.

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Black American Muslim Family Reunion

Islamic Social Services USA invites all community members to a special event with the theme Black History Is Muslim History. The event at Tempe History Museum will offer in-person and livestream options. Engage with Black American Muslims and learn about their history and diverse backgrounds. Reserve a free ticket at https://www.eventbrite.com.

Details: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3. Tempe History Museum, 809 E. Southern Ave. Free. tempe.gov.

I, Too, Sing America Film Festival

The Scottsdale Baha'i Faith Community Center is hosting the I, Too, Sing America Black History Month Film Festival 2024 throughout February. The free event aligns with the guiding principles of the Bahá’í faith, emphasizing justice, oneness and unity. There will be film screenings — "The Color Purple" on Feb. 3, "Black Art: In the Absence of Light" on Feb. 10 and "The Hate U Give" on Feb. 17 — and a two-day celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop on Feb. 24-25. Discussions accompany each screening, exploring the African American experience and promoting racial unity.

Details: February 3, 10, 17, 24-25. Scottsdale Baha’i Faith Community Center, 6910 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale. Free. scottsdalebahai.org.

Black History Month Celebration

Honor the past and celebrate the present to inspire a brighter future at the Maricopa Library and Cultural Center. Each Wednesday in February presents a specific theme, including wearing baseball jerseys and caps on Feb. 7, donning purple in support of the Ruby Bridges Foundation on Feb. 14, honoring the Tuskegee Airmen on Feb. 21 and creating friendship bracelets on Feb. 28.

Details: Wednesdays in February. 5:30 p.m. Feb. 7; 4 p.m. Feb. 14, 21 and, 28. Maricopa Library and Cultural Center, 18160 N. Maya Angelou Drive. Free. eventbrite.com.

Black History Celebration 2024: Kings & Queens Unbreakable

The South Chandler Self-Help Foundation in collaboration with the city of Chandler presents the annual Black History celebration titled "Kings & Queens Unbreakable." The event starts with a VIP R&B social mixer with music from Painted Soul. The main event promises a diverse showcase featuring comedians, steppers, music, spoken word and more. Attendees can expect an immersive experience celebrating Black history and culture.

Details: Friday, Feb. 9. VIP mixer, 5:30 p.m. Main event, 7-9 p.m. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. General admission is $12; VIP is $30. southchandlerselfhelp.org.

Black History Month Activity Day

Join the African American Advisory Committee at Tempe History Museum for an interactive kids' day celebration of Black History Month. This free event is designed for the entire family to participate in.

Details: Noon Saturday, Feb. 10. Tempe History Museum, 809 E. Southern Ave. Free. tempe.gov.

Black Excellence Expo

The Black Excellence Expo is a celebration of Black history and achievement in commemoration of Black History Month. It's a platform for diverse vendors, businesses and organizations and highlights significant contributions made by Black individuals throughout history.

Details: 10 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 11. Glendale Civic Center, 5750 W. Glenn Drive. Free. allevents.in.

Grassrootz Black History Month Celebration

The fourth annual Grassrootz Black History Month Celebration at Grassrootz Bookstore in Phoenix will be centered around health, wealth and knowledge of self. The event includes performances and presentations from poets, musicians, dancers, authors, activists and guest speakers.

Details: Noon Saturday, Feb. 17. Grassrootz Bookstore 1145 E. Washington St., Phoenix. Free. grassrootzbookstore.com.

Maricopa Black History Month Celebration

Maricopa's Black History Month Celebration will blend national and local artists and diverse programming that emphasizes the significant contributions of the Black community to the world. There will be activities, educational outreach and more. Featured performers are Willie Rogers, lead singer of the Soul Stirrers and a Rock and Roll and Gospel Hall of Fame inductee, and jazz saxophonist Elan Trotman.

Details: 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 18. Ak-Chin Circle Entertainment Center, 16000 N. Maricopa Road, Maricopa. $30, eventbrite.com.

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