City of Bloomington Announces 2026 Black History Month Events and Community Kick-Off

~ Bloomington, IN- The City of Bloomington is gearing up for its annual Black History Month events, set to kick off on Saturday, February 7, 2026. The city is inviting all residents and visitors to join in the celebration at City Hall (401 N. Morton Street) starting at 3:30 p.m. with doors opening at 4 p.m. for the program in Council Chambers. This event is free and open to the public.

The theme for this year's Black History Month is "A Century of Black History Commemorations," which aims to recognize the rich history and contributions of African Americans that have shaped both local and national culture. The city hopes to bring the community together through various forms of expression such as music, performance, youth involvement, and local entrepreneurship.

The kickoff event will feature a performing arts showcase that will highlight talented local students, artists, and performers. The program, titled "Showcasing the Performing Arts," will be hosted by Nia I'man Smith, a doctoral candidate in ethnomusicology and host of Sonic Blacknuss on WFHB.

Some of the featured performers include the Indiana University African American Choral Ensemble, Fairview Elementary School Show Choir and Drummers, Bloomington Montessori School Chorus, poet Jada Chivers, and the Black, Brown, and Beige Theatre Troupe.

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In addition to the kickoff celebration, there will be several other events throughout February that encourage community participation. These include the Black Market on February 14 at City Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., which will feature black-owned businesses and organizations in support of local entrepreneurs. On February 21 at City Hall from 12-2 p.m., there will be a ceremony recognizing artwork created by local youth as part of a poster board contest.

The month-long celebration will culminate with a grand finale event, the Black History Month Gala, on February 28 at One World at Woolery Mill (2250 W. Sunstone Dr., Suite 100). The evening will include dining, music, and recognition of the 2026 Living Legend recipients and the Commission on the Status of Black Males' Outstanding Black Leaders of Tomorrow. The reception and silent auction will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the program at 7 p.m. Tickets must be reserved in advance through the Buskirk-Chumley Theater Box Office (114 E. Kirkwood Ave.), online at bctboxoffice.org, or by phone at 812-323-3020. Financial assistance is available for those who wish to attend but may need sponsorship.

A full schedule of events can be found on the city's website at bloomington.in.gov/bhm. The City of Bloomington hopes that these events will bring the community together to celebrate and honor black history and culture.

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