Celebrating the achievements of African Americans in U.S. history is something that can (and should) be done throughout the year. However, Black History Month provides a unique opportunity to be intentional with how you recognize the role of African Americans in our nation’s history and increase your family’s awareness of that history. To learn more about the origins of Black History Month, African American Waco history, and view a list of Black-owned businesses to support, read Camille Wilder’s awesome 2023 post!
If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for more ways to be intentional, especially in parenting! So, although February is already underway, here is a list of family-friendly events happening here in Waco to help you celebrate Black History Month this year.
Sunday 2/18, 2:30pm at Waco Civic Theatre – An Adam Experiment is a one-man play that explores a day in the life of Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., a pioneering crusader for justice during the Civil Rights movement and member of the U.S. House of Representatives. This play touches on Adam’s fight for equality for African Americans as well as struggles in his personal life. This thought-provoking performance is being brought to Waco Civic Theatre in collaboration with the Waco Family & Faith International Film Festival. (Purchase tickets HERE)
Monday 2/19, 10am-3pm at The Heir’s Table (121 N Hewitt Drive) – Chef Heir is hosting a “School’s Out Series: Black History Cooking Class” for kids 8 years and older. Children will learn the history of The Shoe Box Lunch, the food it included, and how Black women packed shoe box meals to keep their families safe during the Jim Crow Era. The box lunch class will include fried chicken, deviled eggs, pound cake, hand pie, fresh fruit, sweet tea and more! (Call 254-548-3438 to reserve your spot)
Monday 2/19, 10:30am – Join the Mayborn Museum’s special Black History Month storytime. Honor the legacy of Black leaders and be inspired to “Dream Big!” This session will feature the talented Breshena Crosby of Baylor Theater.
Wednesday 2/21 & 2/28, 10:30am – Special story time at Fabled Bookshop celebrating Black heroes and main characters in stories.
Saturday 2/24, 10am-12pm – Join tour guides from the Institute for Oral History in the third annual Black History Walk in downtown Waco. This free event showcases African American History in Waco, covering topics such as education, religion, the arts, and more. The walk will begin and end at the McLennan County Courthouse (501 Washington Ave) and will last for approximately two hours. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water! (Register HERE)
Saturday 2/24, 7:30pm & Sunday 2/25, 2:30pm at Waco Civic Theatre – The amazing Royce Montgomery and his guests are showing off their incredible skills in a variety show! With music from every age and style – jazz, soul, gospel – you’re sure to be entertained! (Purchase tickets HERE)
Thursday 2/29, 7-9pm – Celebrate Black History Month during the annual Gospel Explosion! This free event will take place at the Doris Miller Community Center (1020 Elm Ave.). Bring the whole family out to enjoy musical performances, praise dance and mime groups, along with other local talent.
Feb 13-29 – The Dewey Community Center (925 N. 9th St.) will be featuring a mini museum experience showcasing African Americans’ impact on America and the world. The free exhibit will be open to the public during regular center hours, with some exceptions. Additionally, a free “Taste of Soul” event will kick off the museum’s opening on Feb. 13. Starting at 11 a.m. the Dewey team will be serving up delicious samples of smoked neckbones, meatloaf, collard greens, macaroni, red beans, cornbread and dessert (while supplies last). See website for exhibit hours and more information.
I hope you found this article helpful as you seek to celebrate the many voices, traditions, perspectives, and contributions that African Americans have made and continue to make across the nation and right here in Waco. And be sure to check out these additional articles for even more ways to celebrate Black History Month:
- https://news.web.baylor.edu/news/story/2024/baylor-greater-waco-community-celebrate-black-history-month
- https://baylorlariat.com/2024/01/31/what-to-do-in-waco-black-history-month-edition/
- https://wacotrib.com/life-entertainment/local/art-theater/waco-theater-marks-black-history-month-with-3-productions/article_c2164a72-c06e-11ee-b45c-7bb0547fab75.html
