### Celebrate Black History Month in Orlando
Black History Month events in Orlando are set to kick off and continue throughout February, featuring a dynamic lineup of commemorations and celebrations honoring Black history and culture.
Expect limited-time exhibitions and live performances, plus year-round cultural attractions, historic tours, and thriving Black-owned businesses to visit.
Additional information on Orlando’s Black History Month programming can be found at VisitOrlando.com.
### Highlights of Black History Month Events
Central Florida locals and visitors can pay tribute to African American culture through exclusive musical performances, art exhibits, and much more. The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts (Jan. 16 – Feb. 2) features vibrant works created in honor of Black History Month. Attendees can enjoy unique artistic interpretations of beloved Disney scenes, alongside performances from stars of Disney on Broadway including Jelani Remy and Kissy Simmons from The Lion King.
Another notable event, the ZORA! Outdoor Festival of the Arts, takes place in Eatonville from Jan. 30 – Feb. 1. This three-day cultural celebration transforms Historic Eatonville, the first African American incorporated municipality in the U.S., into an open-air museum with live performances, an international marketplace, and craft booths.
### Uplifting Performances and Exhibitions
On Feb. 3, acclaimed vocalist Brandon Martin will present Lift Every Voice and Sing! at Judson’s Live, offering an empowering portrait of the African American experience. Other performances throughout the month include the free MLK Gospel Concert (Feb. 22) and shows featuring Grammy Award-winning producer Pete Rock (Feb. 20) and jazz legends like Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue (Feb. 21).
The African Americans and the Arts Exhibition runs from Feb. 3 – March 31 at the Terrace Gallery in Orlando City Hall. This exhibition showcases 48 works from 28 local artists inspired by the 2026 national Black History Month theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”
### Sporting Events and Historical Commemorations
The NBA’s Orlando Magic will honor the achievements of the Black community on Feb. 5 with special performances during their game against the Brooklyn Nets at Kia Center. The Orange County Regional History Center will host several events, including History Alive: Soul of the Sunshine State (Feb. 7), focusing on local trailblazers.
Other highlights include the Brechner Speaker Series (Feb. 8), which traces the Nightingale family’s journey, and Sensory Sunday (Feb. 15), celebrating Black animators and storytellers through engaging activities.
### Family-Friendly Programs
Orlando Family Stage presents Tiara’s Hat Parade on select dates from Feb. 7-22, a family-friendly production celebrating Black culture and innovation. The show revolves around a young girl named Tiara who uses creativity and kindness to help her mother revive their hat-making business.
Another amazing opportunity to experience various forms of artistry is the Timucua Amplifies Black Voices event, taking place over four days (Feb. 13-14, 20-21) at the Timucua Arts Foundation. This event features performances by a range of Black American artists, showcasing jazz, R&B, and more.
### Year-Round Cultural Attractions
Beyond Black History Month, Orlando is home to numerous African American cultural sites. Historic Eatonville, where writer Zora Neale Hurston lived, celebrates Black heritage at the Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts. The town hosts the annual ZORA! Festival (Jan. 7 – Feb. 1) and other events throughout the year.
Parramore, Orlando’s oldest African American neighborhood, features the Wells’ Built Museum of African American History and Culture, which preserves the legacy of the local community. Additionally, the Orange County Regional History Center offers a permanent exhibit that explores the history of African Americans in Central Florida, spotlighting artists from Florida’s Highwaymen.
In Winter Park, visitors can explore the Hannibal Square Heritage Center, which preserves the history of a community founded for Black families in 1881. Guided tours highlighting the community’s significant landmarks reveal stories of resilience and triumph.
Pop by the SOKO Marketplace every Saturday morning to enjoy small-business shopping, free yoga, food, and live music, where proceeds benefit culturally relevant programming for Hannibal Square.
### Black-Owned Businesses and Restaurants
Orlando’s burgeoning food scene features many Black-owned restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. BBQ enthusiasts can indulge at Pete’s Famous BBQ in Downtown Orlando, while seafood lovers will enjoy Stonington’s Fried Shrimp in Metro West. For a taste of Nashville, Chicken Fire serves delicious hot chicken.
Those craving Caribbean cuisine can visit Mark’s Jamaican Bar & Grill or Virgin Island Thyme. For soul food, top spots include Nikki’s Place and P&D Soul Food Kitchen in Downtown Orlando.
Health-conscious diners can opt for Vitality Bowls in the Dr. Phillips area or satisfy their sweet tooth at Sister Honey’s, known for its delectable pies and pastries. The District GastroBar in Downtown Orlando pays homage to legendary musicians from the past.
Shoppers looking for unique gifts and stationery can explore Pretty Peacock Paperie in Winter Park, while Naked Bar Soap Co. offers all-natural bath and body care products made with sustainable ingredients.
For more about Orlando happenings, please visit VisitOrlando.com.
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