Black History Month

You know one of the greatest things about experiencing Houston as a destination? The sheer amount of cultural diversity around every corner.

This February, we celebrate the contributions and history of this city's African American community. From the West Indies to East Africa, we're able to see, taste, and explore the many facets of the various cultures and how Houston has helped them not only survive, but thrive.

There is no shortage of new dishes to try, people to meet, and places to see. Take a look at our guides below to get started.

Cultural Landmarks and Museums

Houston has a rich African American history and we are also lucky to have many places of interest that show you how the community has contributed and transformed over the years. Read more...

Black-Owned Restaurants

We often say that the best way to learn about someone's culture is by trying their food. See where you can try some of Houston's most popular black-owned restaurants and what to order when you get there. Eat more...

Black American Arts Community

This month, we highlight the story of three Houstonian artists and explore how the city has inspired them. See their stories here...

Small Business Highlight: Historic Third Ward

Third Ward, The Tre, Beyonce's stomping grounds. This neighborhood is full of fledging businesses that come with a story. See some of our local favorites and stop by to pick up a gift for someone special... or, yourself. ♥️  View the list...

Avenida Houston to celebrate 2022 Black History Month each weekend in February

Avenida Houston will be the center of free fun activities for the public and families to enjoy for this year’s Black History Month celebration. Each weekend, programming will feature art, music, minority vendors, and educational activities that reflect and celebrate Houston’s rich diversity. 

Black History @ Avenida Houston – Every Saturday in February, 1-5 pm on the Plaza at Avenida Houston (between the GRB & Discovery Green)

BLCK Market

For the third year HFC is partnering with J.O. Malone, founder of BLCK Market to present an outdoor market featuring 50 locally black-owned entrepreneurs each Saturday, including artists, designers, and business entrepreneurs offering a wide variety of products. 

Live Entertainment

KTSU 90.9FM will be hosting the main stage at Avenida Houston which will feature live musical entertainment provided by various local bands with a different genre highlighted each Saturday.  

Saturday, Feb.   5 – Jazz

                 1:30 pm – Jalen Baker

                 2:45 pm – Kiora

                 4:00 pm – Patrick Williams Group 

Saturday, Feb. 12 – Blues & Zydeco

                 1:30 pm - James Boogaloo Bolden

                 2:45 pm – Choppa Law

                 4:00 pm – Step Rideaux

Saturday, Feb. 19 – R&B and Neo-Soul

                 1:30 pm – Liz Vaughn

                 2:45 pm – Reggie Jamz

                 4:00 pm – Covington Richmond Band

Saturday, Feb. 26 – Gospel & Inspirational

                 1:30 pm – Rhonda McLemore & Friends

                 2:45 pm – Gene Moore

                 4:00 pm – V. Michael McKay

Art

The Harris County Cultural Arts Council (HCCAC) will curate the art exhibit. The arts component of Black History Month at Avenida will honor and promote the work of Houston based African American fulltime professional artists, provide a platform for working emerging artist as well as for beginning artists from area schools.  Ted Ellis, an HCCAC Fellow, will headline the opening of the Exhibit.  Other prominent professional artists who will participate include famous muralist Alice Patrick, Jean Mathieu-Baptiste, Adonnia, Cecilie Nicole Baxter, Linda Simeon Kelly, Linda Luna, Madelyn McCraney, and Allyson Bryant Moon.

Educational Activities

Learning and cultural entertainment activities will take place on the Wharf at Avenida Houston each Saturday. This will include fun and informative activities like historical storytelling.  

• KoumanKe’le’ African Dance and Drum Ensemble will perform traditional West and South African cultural dances.
• Houston-based singer, Ki Kyham will share his soulful rhythmic vocal talents.
• Enjoy the unique acoustic sound of saxophonist Kyle Turner.
• Health education professionals from the Houston Health Department will be available to provide information to raise public awareness about a variety of health-related topics.

KTSU Daily Moments in Black History

HFC understands the value and power of togetherness, so we are partnering with KTSU-FM, Texas Southern University’s as a presenting sponsor of “Daily Moments in Black History,” which will pay tribute to the legacy of African American legends from Houston.