February is Black History Month, giving everyone a chance to celebrate and honor African Americans’ cultures, experiences, and hardships. Whether going to a historical performance, listening to a story about heroes who fought for freedom, or going out to support Black-owned businesses and artisans, there are many ways your family can pay tribute to the triumphs and struggles while learning more about history. Scroll down to find out how to celebrate all through February. (featured photo credit: Express Yourself Studios, LLC)
Here Are 15 Ways To Celebrate Black History Month In NJ
Ocean County Library’s Black History Month Events
Various dates and times in February
Kids can celebrate Black History Month all month long through various events. Make a Unity Wreath Craft in Plumsted, enjoy a Traditional West and Central African Dance and Drumming in Little Egg Harbor, or watch a documentary called Harriet Tubman: Visions of Freedom. At the Brick Branch, you can also learn about The Tuskegee Airmen, America’s First Black Pilots.
Various locations in Ocean County
Black History Month Cookie Decorating Class
February 1 at 11 AM, 12 PM, and 1 PM
Take a 1-hour class with Glassy Brown Cookies and decorate it with royal icing. No experience is necessary for this event.
Cherry Hill Mall, 2000 New Jersey 38, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Black History Escape Room
February 1 at 12 PM
Do you know your Black History? Find out at Paterson Public Library and see if you can solve the escape room using historical facts.
250 Broadway, Paterson, NJ 07501
Pan-African Flag Raising
February 1 at 12 PM
Join the mayor and social justice commission as they raise the flag for Black History Month to celebrate African American culture, history, and community.
Train Station Plaza, Milton Ave. between Irving and Broad Streets, Rahway, NJ 07065
Jack and Jill of America, Inc. BC Chapter Black History Month Re-enactment
February 1 at 3 PM
Celebrate Black History Month at the Willingboro Public Library as they honor it with a historical re-enactment (provided by Joe Becton Tours) of the Underground Railroad and the Civil War. This in-person event will feature historical facts, engaging activities, music, inspiring speakers, and a chance to connect with the community.
220 Willingboro Way, Willingboro, NJ 08046
Black History Month Celebration and Storytelling
February 2 at 2 PM
Starting at 2 PM, engage in storytelling and crafts. Then, at 2:30 PM, watch an interactive storytelling event based on “What To Do? What To Do?” The event will teach the origins of cultural songs through puppets, singing, and storytelling.
Fair Lawn Public Library, 10-01 Fair Lawn Avenue, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
South Orange Downtown Celebrates Black History Month
February 6 at 7 PM
Celebrate the start of Black History Month with networking opportunitiess, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar for adults.
Papillon 25, 25 Valley Street, South Orange, NJ 07079
Baba Kazi Oliver: African Drummer Extraordinaire
February 8 at 7 PM
Learn about the cultural and historical importance of the drum as Baba Kazi Oliver performs the African drum. There is no cost to attend.
31 Engle Street, Englewood, NJ 07631
Douglass Day Transcribe-a-thon at Rowan
February 14 at 11 AM
Join Rowan College as they join other universities in a transcribe-a-thon to transcribe the papers of Frederick Douglass and documents about African American history to make them more widely accessible online.
201 Mullica Hill Road, Glassboro, NJ 08028
Follow the Drinking Gourd
February 15 and 22 at 3 PM
Visit the planetarium to find the Big Dipper and then travel back in time to follow a family trying to escape oppression. Based on Jeanette Winters’ book of the same title, the show describes the astronomy behind the song “Follow the Drinking Gourd” and includes a sing-along. It is recommended for ages 6-12.
118 Lamington Road, Branchburg, NJ 08876
Guided House Tour: Eyewitness To Black History
February 16 at 12 PM, 1 PM, 2 PM
Explore 200 years of Black history during this Guided House Tour at the Montclair History Center. The tour includes first-hand accounts, rare source documents, amazing artifacts, and much more. Tours begin at the Nathanial Crane House & Visitor Center. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for students, and $8 for children.
110 Orange Road, Montclair, NJ 07042
Kid Speak Out
February 20 at 4 PM
Join this art reception and open mic for kids. In partnership with the SOMSD elementary schools, the library displays artwork and poetry by children about Black History, identity, equality, and justice.
1688 Springfield Ave., Maplewood, NJ 07040
5th Annual African American Read-In
February 22 at 11 AM
This is an event the whole family can enjoy, listening to literary excellence and cultural heritage. Feel free to bring a selection to share with the group or just come and listen. There will be a special craft for all ages.
Kennedy Library, 500 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Black History Month Celebration
February 23 at 9 AM
Learn all about African American history through music, dance, and the arts. Immerse yourself in various captivating performances, inspiring exhibitions, and engaging activities that honor the achievements and resilience of the African American community.
Stangl Center, 4 Stangl Road, Flemington, NJ 08822
Black History Month Trivia
February 25 at 4 PM
In honor of African American History Month, bring the whole family and enjoy a fun and educational trivia game. Have a fun time while learning about Black historical figures in America. The event is free, but pre-registration is required.
INLAND Family Success Center, 3050 Spruce Ave. Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
