Celebrate Black History Month in L.A.

The Petersen Automotive Museum has partnered with the Smithsonian Institution to present its newest exhibition, “The Negro Motorist Green Book,” which offers an immersive look at how the guide served as “the bible of Black travel during Jim Crow” and the reality of travel for African Americans in mid-century America.

Started in 1936 by Harlem postman Victor Green, “The Negro Motorist Green Book” was a guide published over three decades that helped African Americans travel the country safely and with dignity during a time of Jim Crow laws and segregation. The exhibition showcases a collection of artifacts, photographs and personal accounts that shed light on the impact of the guide, as well as the challenges African American travelers faced during the mid-century. This display also highlights the growth and development of African American businesses and the significant role played by “The Negro Motorist Green Book” in American history. “The Negro Motorist Green Book” is a traveling exhibition developed by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) in collaboration with award-winning author, photographer and cultural documentarian Candacy Taylor.

Kids and teens are invited to help complete portions of artwork celebrating Black History Month on Santa Monica’s Main Library Youth area display wall. For youth ages 17 and under. 

This year PAFF will feature over 200 films and over 100 established and emerging artists showcasing the African diaspora. 

The 2024 program includes world premieres, art exhibition, panel discussions, Q&A sessions, Studentfest for students and their teachers, Children’s Festival for ages 4-12, LOL! Comedy Show and more. 

Be The Change presents Black History Month Storytime. Celebrate love of family, love of self and love of culture with engaging picture books.

The Be the Change Series is the Library’s promise to build collective understanding of systemic racism, elevate the voices and stories of Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), and inspire our community to be the change through lectures, exhibits, and programming.

Jefferson Library is named after Vassie D. Wright, but do you know who she was? Join Jefferson – Vassie D. Wright Memorial Branch Library and learn about her legacy while making a simple Valentine’s Day craft.

Join Ascot Branch Library for fun read aloud stories about Black ballet dancers such as Janet Collins, Raven Wilkinson, Alicia Alonso, and Arthur Mitchell.

Pasadena commemorates Black History Month with the 42nd Annual Black History Parade and Festival 2024, titled “Past – Present – Future: Celebrating the life and legacy of Jackie Robinson.”

One of Southern California’s largest and longest-running Black history parades begins at 10 a.m. at Fair Oaks Ave. and Mountain View St. and ends at Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Avenue. The festival begins at 12 p.m. and features live bands, dance performances, community booths, guest speakers, food for purchase, and tons of fun.

Open Arms Food Pantry and Resource Center presents the 8th Annual LA Black History Month Festival with headliner RoJames. 

The free event will feature an African Marketplace, concession vendors, performing artists and discussion on topics including health, mental health and issues related to the African American community.

Listen to iconic music from the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and be inspired to create an original piece of art.

Create a piece of stained glass artwork inspired by the technique and artistic style of portrait painter Kehinde Wiley. Among Wiley’s famous pieces includes former President Barack Obama’s portrait in the National Portrait Gallery.

The L.A. County Dept of Parks and Recreation celebrates Black History Month all throughout February through arts and crafts, live performances, and food tastings (first come, first served). 

The Aquarium of the Pacific hosts its 22nd annual African American Festival. The event features music, dance, storytelling, historical displays and the Aquarium’s Heritage Award ceremony.

Join the SouthBay Pavilion to celebrate Black History Month with live music by Seville, prizes, vendors, trivia, raffles and more.