Black History Month 2026: Celebrating Black History & Voices in Birmingham
October marks Black History Month, a time to celebrate the histories, cultures, achievements and contributions of Black communities, while creating space to reflect on the experiences and struggles that have shaped our communities and our society.
In Birmingham, Black History Month 2026 offers a diverse programme of events bringing people together through music, poetry, literature, theatre, art, film and community celebrations. From emerging Black British filmmakers at S.O.U.L. Fest to new Black creativity at And Still I Rise, this year’s programme provides opportunities to experience and celebrate the breadth of Black culture and creativity in the city.
There are also opportunities to explore history, heritage and the stories of individuals who have shaped our communities. Highlights include a celebration of the life and legacy of Birmingham-born poet Benjamin Zephaniah, an evening with pioneering publisher and writer Margaret Busby, and Jamaican-American writer and academic Thomas Glave discussing Black history, identity, colonialism and resistance.
For families and younger audiences, events such as the Melanin Marvels Festival provide spaces for children and communities to celebrate Black history and creativity together. Across the month, Birmingham’s programme demonstrates that Black history is not simply about looking back — it is also about recognising the creativity, achievements, voices and contributions shaping our city today.
Black History Month is an opportunity for all of us to learn, listen, celebrate and take part. Whether through attending an event, supporting a local organisation, discovering a new artist or learning more about Birmingham’s Black history, there are many ways to get involved.
Explore the full programme of Black History Month 2026 events in Birmingham.
