February is Black History Month, but in Orlando, the vibrant energy extends far beyond just one month. So, get ready to immerse yourselves in art, music, food, and experiences that showcase the incredible contributions of Black Americans to our city and beyond!

Black History Month Festivals & Events in Orlando

Take the kids to learn more about black history at these festivals and events taking place in Orlando.

ZORA! Festival

Immerse yourselves in the rich history of Eatonville, the first incorporated Black municipality in the US, at this lively festival featuring live music, art, crafts, and a vibrant marketplace. This event is taking place right before Black History Month from January 26-28.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Witness the power and grace of this iconic dance company at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Alvin Ailey will be in Orlando right before Black History Month. Their performances take place from January 30-31

African Americans and the Arts Exhibition

Discover the diverse talents of local Black artists at this exhibition at Orlando City Hall. The exhibit takes place from February 2 to March 31.

History Alive: Bessie Coleman

Celebrate the legacy of America’s first Black and Native American female pilot during the History Alive: Bessie Coleman at the Orange County Regional History Center. This program takes place on February 3.

MLK Gospel Concert

If you are a lover of gospel music then you will definitely want to attend the MLK Gospel Concert. The theme of this concert is “Through the storm, I need You to survive!” The concert is taking place on February 2.

Parramore Historic Bus Tour

Take a tour around this historic black neighborhood in Orlando. Learn more about the historic contributions of black Orlando residents. After the tour enjoy free entry to the Wells Built Museum. The bus tour is taking place on February 8.

Sanford Jazz Ensemble’s Black History Month Concert

Groove to the sounds of Motown and classic jazz at the historic Ritz Theater. The concert takes place on February 11.

Simply Tina: Tribute to the Legendary Tina Turner

Introduce your kids to the legendary Tina Turner. The show reproduces a Tina Turner concert with some of her best songs including Proud Mary, Simply the Best, Private Dancer and more. The show takes place on February 10.

Timucua Amplifies Black Voices

During the Timucua Amplifies Black Voices program, enjoy performances by talented  musicians, poets, and artists at this three-day event taking place from February 16 to 18.

Who’s Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience

Sing and dance along to your favorite MJ hits during the Who’s Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience at House of Blues Orlando. This show taking place on February 16 is family-friendly

Related Post: Great Kid Books for Black History Month

Orlando Neighborhoods to Visit During Black History Month (or anytime of the year)

Black history doesn’t have to be limited to one month. You can visit these neighborhoods in Orlando to find out more about black history anytime during the year.

Eatonville

Eatonville is the oldest incorporated black town in the US. Take the kids over to Eatonville to explore the town. Make sure to stop in at the Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts.

Parramore

Parramore is Orlando’s oldest and largest black neighborhood and features many historic buildings including the Wells’ Built Hotel which is now the Wells’ Built Museum of African American History and Culture. Bring the kids to visit the museum and take a walking tour of this historic neighborhood.

Hannibal Square

Hannibal Square is a community that was founded for black families in 1881. Visit the Hannibal Square Heritage Center  and learn about the community’s rich history. enjoy the SOKO Marketplace on Saturdays.

Black Owned Restaurants to Check Out in Orlando this month (and beyond)

Here are black owned restaurants in Orlando to check out.

Orlando Famous Pete’s BBQ in Downtown Orlando which serves up BBQ and Southern faves.

Brick & Spoon in Maitland for Southern favorites and an amazing brunch.

Big Lou’s Single Wing Express in Downtown for seafood or wings.

Stonington’s Fried Shrimp, in Metro West and Altamonte Springs, serving up, you guessed it, great fried shrimp.

Mad Crab Seafood & Wings in Eatonville for delicious crab boils.

Chicken Fire in Orlando specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken.

Mark’s Jamaican Bar and Grill or Oley’s Kitchen & Smokehouse for Caribbean-inspired eats.

Nikki’s Place,  P&D Soul Food Kitchen and Soul Food Fantasy for some soul food.

Vitality Bowls in Dr. Phillips for some healthier food options.

Pattie Lou’s Donuts for great-tasting donuts.

Sister Honey’s for pies, cookies and pastries.

Make sure to stop in at one or all these restaurants this month.