St. Louis Black History Month Events: Honoring a Century of African American Heritage

Exactly 100 years ago, historian and African American scholar Dr. Carter G. Woodson created “Negro History Week” to encourage the study and appreciation of Black achievements and contributions. Over time, this week expanded into what we now observe as Black History Month each February, a dedicated period to recognize the struggles, triumphs, and cultural heritage of African Americans both nationally and locally. 

Woodson, 1875-1950, who earned a doctorate in history from Harvard University in 1912, lobbied schools and organizations to participate in a special program to encourage the study of Black history during “Black History Week. Woodson selected February for the initial weeklong celebration to honor the birth months of abolitionist Frederick Douglass and former President Abraham Lincoln.

Every year, the St. Louis metropolitan area, as well as cities and communities across the United States, come alive with vibrant celebrations, educational programs, and community events that honor the rich and resilient legacy of African American history. 

These activities are part of a broader tradition in St. Louis—a city with deep historical roots in the story of Black America—institutions, libraries, museums, and neighborhood organizations host events that range from lectures and performances to interactive family activities and art exhibitions.

Through these events, residents and visitors alike are invited to reflect on the past, celebrate community accomplishments, and engage in conversations about equity, culture, and shared history. 

Numerous Black History celebrations and events are scheduled throughout February in the St. Louis area. Below are links to some of the activities. Let’s take a deep dive into one of them, as others will be explored as the commemorative month unfolds. 

These events not only commemorate historical milestones but also strengthen community bonds and inspire ongoing engagement with St. Louis’s diverse cultural landscape. 

The St. Louis County Library hosts an annual Black History Celebration throughout February with a theme—for 2026, “Exploring 100 Years of Black St. Louis”—that includes jazz concerts, gospel celebrations, author talks, dance workshops, and more.  

Frankie Freeman Inspirational Address

Friday, February 6, 7:00 p.m.

Vivian Gibson
“The Last Children of Mill Creek”

In Conversation with Gwen Moore, Curator of Urban Landscape and Community Identity at the Missouri Historical Society

From its origin at the turn of the 20th century to its destruction in 1959 in the name of urban renewal, Mill Creek Valley was a center for Black life in St. Louis. Vivian Gibson grew up in Mill Creek Valley. Her moving memoir, “The Last Children of Mill Creek,” depicts the families, friends, shop owners, church ladies, teachers, and others who made Mill Creek into a warm, tight-knit African-American community. Gibson will be joined in conversation by Gwen Moore, curator of the Missouri History Museum’s exhibition, “Mill Creek: Black Metropolis.”

During the event, Ohun Ashe, Michael P. McMillan, Kayla Reed, and Michelle D. Tucker will receive the Frankie Freeman Inspirational Award.

Adults. Clark Family Branch

Feature Film: “The Pruitt-Igoe Myth” 

Wednesday, February 4, 6:00 p.m.

View the film and then participate in a discussion. MPAA rating: Not Rated. Running time: 53 min. 

Adults. Natural Bridge Branch

Set the Night to Music

Friday, February 13, 7:00 p.m.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Drew Project! Enjoy music, light refreshments and a fun photo backdrop. Singing and dancing encouraged. 

Adults. Florissant Valley Branch

Gift of Gospel

Saturday, February 28, 1:00 p.m.

Pastor Shaun Williams returns once again to present amazing local gospel talents, including the Community Gospel Choir of St. Louis, Chrystal and Charity Williams, Valaur Dickerson and others. Be ready to have a hand-clapping, toe-tapping good time.

All ages. Clark Family Branch

“Takunda”

Monday, February 23, 6:00 p.m.

Presented by The Black Rep

Sixteen-year-old Takunda’s world is turned upside down when her father is arrested for his political activities in the turbulent Rhodesia of 1973. This coming of age story incorporates African folk tales and songs, featuring an ensemble of four actors and the vibrant art of storytelling.

All ages. Lewis & Clark Branch

AUTHOR EVENTS

Matthew Delmont, “Until the Last Gun is Silent: A Story of Patriotism, the Vietnam War, and the Fight to Save America’s Soul”

Monday, February 2, 7:00 p.m.

Civil rights historian and award-winning author Matthew Delmont presents the untold story of the Black patriots–from soldiers in combat to peace protestors–who ended the Vietnam War.

Adults. Clark Family Branch

Gregory O’Malley, “The Escapes of David George: An Odyssey of Slavery, Freedom and the American Revolution”

Monday, February 9, 7:00 p.m. 

One out of six inhabitants of the 13 original colonies was enslaved. Historian Gregory O’Malley reveals a remarkable, untold experience of the American revolutionary period—a Black man’s decades-long quest for the freedom espoused by our Founders, but denied him and other enslaved people. 

Adults. Clark Family Branch

Pat Simmons, “Accomplices in Love: The Jamieson Legacy–The Next Generation”

Tuesday, February 10, 5:30 p.m.

Pat Simmons is a St. Louis-based, multi-published Christian romance author of 50+ titles. She is a self-proclaimed genealogy sleuth who is passionate about researching her ancestors, then casting them in starring roles in her novels. Her popular Jamieson Legacy Series weaves American Black history and genealogy with uplifting romance. Pat will discuss her experiences in the publishing world and highlight her work as an African American Christian author.

Adults. Natural Bridge Branch

Lachi, “I Identify as Blind: A Brazen Celebration of Disability Culture, Identity and Power”

Thursday, February 12, 7:00 p.m.

Lachi is an award-winning recording artist, a co-producer of a Grammy-nominated album and the first openly disabled National Trustee of the Recording Academy. With style and straight talk, Lachi defines disability as a cultural movement, an empowering identity, and a blueprint for innovation. Her memoir, “I Identify as Blind” pulses with energy. Through magnetic storytelling, pop-culture deep dives, and historical insight, Lachi challenges mainstream views on disability with humor and heart.

Adults. Clark Family Branch

FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS ON THE ST. LOUIS COUNTY LIBRARY BLACK HISTORY ACTIVITIES, VISIT 2026 Black History Celebration | St. Louis County Library

Links to other Black History Month events include:

• The St. Louis Black Heritage Network organizes history tours, genealogy workshops, and discussions on figures like Dick Gregory, helping deepen understanding of local heritage year-round.  

• Black History in Missouri at Museums and Historic Sites

• The Griot Museum of Black History hosts educational programs and celebrations such as its Juneteenth “FREE-DOME” Celebration, celebrating African American history and culture in a family-friendly setting. 

• Saint Louis Art Museum (SLAM) (Feb. 16): “We the People” Family Sunday, plus ongoing collection tours.

• Missouri History Museum (Feb. 20): “Thursday Nights at the Museum” with 5 On Your Side, featuring community stories.

• Culture and Commerce Vendor Fair: A spotlight on Black entrepreneurs presented by HSSU and the African Chamber of Commerce on February 21, starting at 1 p.m.

• Grand Center Arts District: Celebration of Black History Month at the Grand Center. From lectures and performances to music and art, there are numerous ways to engage with and celebrate Black History Month in the Grand Center Arts District.

• St. Louis Public Library: Mapping Black History series, featuring discussions on local history, including Mill Creek Valley.

• WashU Campus Celebration: Includes a Black Excellence fashion show and educational workshops. 

#BlackHistoryMonth #CarterGWoodson #StLouisEvents