Black History Month
Black History Month is a time to recognize the history, achievements, creativity, and contributions of Black people. In the United States, it is observed throughout February, beginning on February 1. The month offers an opportunity to learn about Black history and culture, honor people whose stories have often been overlooked, and reflect on the continuing work toward equality.
How Black History Month started
According to the National Archives, historian Carter G. Woodson introduced Negro History Week in 1926. Woodson had founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History ten years earlier. He chose February to honor the birthdays of abolitionists Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.
The National Archives notes that the observance gained national recognition in the 1960s, as Civil Rights Movement activists brought Negro History Week to college campuses. In 1976, after the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History urged the president to recognize Black History Month, President Gerald R. Ford became the first president to do so. He called on Americans to honor the often-overlooked accomplishments of Black Americans. In 1986, Congress officially designated February as National Black History Month.
Remembering history and celebrating contributions
Black history is part of the broader history of the United States and reaches across every area of life. It includes the experiences of enslaved people and those who resisted slavery, the long struggle for civil rights, and the work of generations seeking greater opportunity and justice. It also encompasses everyday stories of family, community, faith, learning, and creativity.
The month is a chance to discover the achievements of Black Americans in fields such as music, literature, science, sports, education, business, and public service. It can introduce people to familiar figures in greater depth and bring attention to others whose work may be less widely known. Black history is not limited to a single month, but February can serve as a helpful invitation to keep learning throughout the year.
Ways to take part in Black History Month
There are many thoughtful ways to observe the month, whether you’re celebrating with family, at school, or in your community:
- Read a book by a Black author. Choose a novel, memoir, biography, poem, or children’s book, and make time to talk about what you read.
- Explore local history. Visit a nearby museum, historic site, library, or cultural center, or look for an online exhibit from a trusted institution.
- Listen and watch with curiosity. Enjoy music, films, performances, or interviews by Black artists and creators, and learn about the stories and traditions behind the work.
- Share what you learn. Invite children to make a short presentation, create a reading list, or ask relatives to share family and community stories.
- Support Black-owned businesses and creators. Shop locally, attend a community event, or follow and share work by artists, authors, and makers.
- Keep learning beyond February. Choose another book, visit, or conversation to carry the month’s spirit of discovery into the rest of the year.
When is Black History Month?
Black History Month: All of February, every year.
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | February (all month) | — |
| 2028 | February (all month) | — |
| 2029 | February (all month) | — |
| 2030 | February (all month) | — |
| 2031 | February (all month) | — |
Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on October 12, 2026 · Last updated October 13, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
When is Black History Month in 2027?
Black History Month is on Monday, February 1, 2027. After that, it falls on Tuesday, February 1, 2028. All of February, every year.
Is Black History Month a public holiday?
No. Black History Month is an observance, not an official public holiday, so schools and businesses stay open as usual.
How did Black History Month begin?
Historian Carter G. Woodson introduced Negro History Week in 1926, choosing February to honor the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. The observance gained wider recognition over time, and Congress officially designated February as National Black History Month in 1986.
What does Black History Month celebrate?
It recognizes Black history, achievements, creativity, and contributions, while honoring stories that have often been overlooked. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the continuing work toward equality.
How can people take part in Black History Month?
Read a book by a Black author, explore a local museum or historic site, or listen to and learn about Black artists and creators. You can also support Black-owned businesses and keep learning beyond February.
Sources
✓ Date matches National Archives: Recognition of Black History Month (checked automatically on October 12, 2026).
