There are many events taking place for Black History Month in Manitoba, including art exhibits, concerts, markets, educational programs, galas and so much more. Make sure to check out the Black History Manitoba website for more information, events and resources.

1. From February 6 to 17, head to The Edge Gallery on Winnipeg’s Main Street to see the exhibition Where Our Roots Connect. Curated by Olivia Cassie, Emmanuella Ejiogu and Efe Ogboru, the art exhibit features numerous local Black artists.

2. The Black History Month Night Market is back for another year at Collège Jeanne-Sauvé (1128 Dakota Street) on February 12! Open from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. and free to enter. Enjoy snacks, drinks, art and live music while you support local Black businesses selling a variety of wares.

3. For an event you can participate in at home, check out A Journey With Manitoba Black Settlers, a virtual event that explores the history and contributions of Black settlers throughout the province. Presented by the Black Manitobans Chamber of Commerce, the event takes place on February 12 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and is free to join. More information here.

4. Noir et Fier/Black and Proud marks its fifth year with the theme “Stand Up.” Until February 28, visit Théâtre Cercle Molière in St. Boniface to see a collection of photographs and visual works designed and directed by Wilgis Agossa, executive director of Noir et Fier. For more information, check out the Noir et Fier website.

5. Head to the Asper School of Business Building at the University of Manitoba on February 14 for Black Voices on a Page, a storytelling and sharing circle event by Devon Clunis, Dr. Patlee Creary and 'Segun Olude. Reserve your spot and find out more information here.

6. St. Vital Centre is home to the Black Diamonds Cultural Market from February 14 to 15. This cultural experience aims to bring together Black-owned businesses and the local community through live music, food stalls, cultural performances and vendors selling a range of fashion, beauty, art and lifestyle products. Entry is free.

7. On February 16, visit the Jamaican Cultural Centre (1098 Winnipeg Ave) for a Black History Month History Lesson & Family Day. This family-friendly event is dedicated to connection and community through education and culture. Enjoy presentations, live music, dance performances and cooking demonstrations. Free to enter, you can find out more about the event here.

8. Calling all fans of Garvey’s Ghost! There will be a community watch party of the first season of the popular comedy series at the Afro-Caribbean Association of Manitoba (259 Watt St) on February 20. Free to enter, the screening will be followed by refreshments and a Q&A.

9. Manitoba Music and WAG-Qaumajuq are commemorating Black History Month with a series of concerts and mixers. Head to the main hall of the Winnipeg Art Gallery on February 20 to enjoy an event presenting celebrated Winnipeg artists in an intimate setting, including Azanti, Dr. Henry Band and DJ DeLulu. Free to enter, the event will also feature food by So Sumptuous, a Nigerian-Canadian vendor. Doors open at 6 p.m.

10. Don’t miss African Fashion Week Winnipeg on February 20 and 21 at Prairie Theatre Exchange. This two-day event is a celebration of African fashion, business and culture, and features African designers, Black-owned businesses and community members for an empowering experience. Find out more and purchase tickets here.

11. Enjoy an evening of Black excellence and romance in Blumenort with Black Love: A Valentine’s Dinner Experience on February 21. There will be DJs, interactive stations, Black History Month tribute moments, photo opportunities and a full-course dinner by Chef Alex in a luxury setting.

12. Make your way to the Sinclair Park Community Centre (490 Sinclair St) on February 21 for Mumzies Market Black History Month Craft and Bake Sale. It includes live performances, food stalls and local vendors, and is free to enter. Open from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.

13. Steal Away: Songs of Hope and Resilience is an evening of music presented by Adèle M. Wilding. Taking place on February 21 at the Crescent Arts Centre in Osborne Village, enjoy a blend of jazz, gospel, blues and soul for a memorable event. Purchase tickets here.

14. Make some new friends and learn about Black History Month at The Social Exchange Networking Event - Black History Month. Held on February 22 from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. at Four Crowns Restaurant & Bar (1030 McPhillips St), you can reserve your spot here.

15. Join acclaimed Chef Rob Thomas on February 24 for an in-person cooking class in partnership with Black History Manitoba. Find out more and get tickets here.

16. The University of Winnipeg Students’ Association is hosting the Black Excellence Gala on February 26. Featuring a panel discussion, live performances, food vendors and more, the evening will celebrate the talent and contributions of Black individuals and communities in the province. Buy tickets here.

17. Noir et Fier/Black and Proud is also hosting its annual gala on February 26. Taking place at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, experience a dynamic evening that includes dinner and live entertainment. Purchase tickets and get more information here.

18. On February 27, attend Black Narratives Leading Our Communities at the University of Winnipeg, an event celebrating the Black African Diaspora community in Canada in partnership with the Afro-Caribbean Mentorship Program (ACMP), University of Manitoba, University of Winnipeg and RRC Polytech. Featuring a keynote speaker (His Excellency, The Honourable Gline Clarke, High Commissioner to Canada from Barbados), panel discussions, creative performances and so much more, it’s one of the most popular events during Black History Month in Manitoba. Entrance is free, but make sure to reserve your spot here.

19. Black Manitobans Chamber of Commerce and the Manitoba Museum are hosting From Recognition to Results, a Black History Month gala night, on February 27. Held at RRC Polytech (319 Elgin Ave), the evening will be centred on “reflection, recognition and action”. Find out more and reserve your spot here.

20. Head to Kilter Brewing Company (450 Rue Deschambault) on February 28 for the third annual Black Artisan Market. Featuring local artisans and businesses, shopping is available from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m. Free to enter.

21. BHM’s Black History Month Closing Ceremony and Awards Banquet is on February 28 at the Norwood Hotel (112 Marion St). The evening promises to be one of elegance and inspiration, featuring a formal dinner, guest speakers, award presentations and many moments of joy and reflection. Purchase tickets here. All are welcome!

22. March 3 is Black History Night at the Winnipeg Jets vs Chicago Blackhawks game. In partnership with Black History Manitoba, there will be featured music, food and entertainment. Buy tickets here.

23. And don’t forget, there are plenty of Black-owned businesses to support in Manitoba this month… and every month! Check out Black Owned Manitoba for a directory of businesses in the province. There are also numerous Black-owned restaurants in Manitoba, including Miss Christine’s Kitchen, AVF Kitchen, K&S Island Grill, Gâto Bakeshop, Mesob Ethiopian Eats, D&M Caribbean Flava and Jollof Life Restaurant in Winnipeg. In Brandon, try Tana Ethiopian Cuisine and Styles Kitchen.