The United States has a complex and deep-rooted African American history, and the Hudson Valley is no exception. From ties to freed slaves in the 1800s to modern agricultural movements, the region has a lot to celebrate and remember throughout February. Join the community in honoring Black History Month at local events to pay tribute to generations of African Americans who struggled with adversity to achieve success in this country.
Family Art Workshop: Black Pearls of Wisdom
Hudson River Museum, Yonkers
Through February 23
This free, family-friendly event celebrates the lives of black icons through art at the Hudson River Museum. Come out with the whole family to create collages out of cardboard, glitter, glue, and printouts that echo the wise words of well-known black figures.
Black Capital: Harlem in the 1920s
New York State Museum, Albany
All February long
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Head to the New York State Museum to check out this ongoing exhibition that celebrates the rich and diverse culture of Harlem in the 1920s. During this time period, the city became a symbol of the African American struggle for civil and economic equality as it emerged as a center for black culture. The exhibition displays artifacts, photographs, and more from the era.
Black History Month Featured Shop Artist: Camille Beckles
Clay Art Center, Port Chester
Through March 1
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At the Clay Art Center in Port Chester, browse a collection of functional ceramics by New York-based artist Camille Beckles. Her work will be available both online and in the shop through March 1 for Black History Month. “I make pottery because it’s fun, because it’s beautiful, because it’s useful. Well-known ceramic forms and proportions are springboards from which I explore deviations that create subtle surprises in my functional work, bringing joy to the user in otherwise ordinary moments,” says Beckles.
Power Soca Dance Cardio
HudCo, Dobbs Ferry
February 12, 19, and 26; 8 a.m.
Get your body moving this month at a power Soca dance cardio class in Dobbs Ferry with Fabienne Beard-Wright. Think of Soca as a fun Caribbean dance fitness party right here in the Hudson Valley. Participants will be led through a series of moves as they learn about the rich culture of Soca music and dance.
Black History Month Film Series
Albany Housing Authority, Albany
February 13, 20, and 28; 5:30 p.m.
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On Thursdays and select Fridays throughout the month, join the Albany Housing Authority in the Capital Region for a special film series that celebrates black history. Featured films include Searching for Timbuctoo, Do the Right Thing, Django Unchained, and Ruby Bridges.
6th Annual Sojourner Truth Life Walk
Dietz Stadium, Kingston
February 15, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Now in its sixth year, the Annual Sojourner Truth Life Walk in Kingston meets at Dietz Stadium. Participants will be driven to Esopus Town Hall to hear speeches from local officials before embarking on the walk to hear spoken word about Sojourner Truth’s life. Some stops along the way include Jug Tavern, City Hall, and Old Dutch Church.
Those Who Served: The Enslaved and Paid Servants of Clermont
Clermont State Historic Site, Germantown
February 15, 2-4 p.m.
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This Black History Month, Clermont State Historic Site recognizes its past with a special tour that recounts the lives of the enslaved and paid servants who worked at the destination. For nearly a century, the mansion was run by a mostly enslaved staff. While most of their stories were lost, recent research has revealed new details about that period in Clermont’s history.
Free Movie: Little Richard: I Am Everything
Bardavon, Poughkeepsie
February 20, 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy a free special screening of Little Richard: I Am Everything at Bardavon this February. The film remembers the life of Richard Wayne Penniman, known to the world as Little Richard. Known for his piano playing and unique raspy voice, Little Richard was a pioneer of the early rock and roll era who influenced the likes of Elvis, The Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix, to name a few.
Celebrating Black History Month
Mid-Hudson Discovery Center, Poughkeepsie
February 22, 12-3 p.m.
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Grab the whole family to participate in special events at the Mid-Hudson Discovery Center this Black History Month. Free with museum admission, the day includes a craft session inspired by STEAM pioneers and an exploration of stories and books that honor the lives of influential black figures.
Related: An Insider’s Guide to February Events in the Hudson Valley
