Black History Month celebrations

February is Black History Month in the United States and Canada, a time to remember important people and events in African-American history. From heroism during wars to scientific discoveries to the fight for equal rights, the stories of African-Americans and their contributions to history take stage during the month. Throughout the month in Fairfax County there are community events that celebrate these achievements and their lasting impact. Here are some celebrations and special events taking place this year. Our list includes some celebrations nearby in Washington, DC, as well.

All Month Long (Feb. 1-29, 2020) – Alexandria, VA
Mount Vernon Celebrates Black History Month
Throughout the month visitors can explore the lives and contributions of the slaves who built, operated, and lived at Mount Vernon through a daily Slave Life at Mount Vernon tour and special wreathlaying ceremony. The events are included in the regular admission prices.

All Month Long (Feb. 1-29, 2020) – Washington, DC
Black History Month at the African-American Museum
All year long you can learn about the contributions of African-Americans throughout history at this still relatively new museum. In February, the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History Culture honors offers special programs including live performances, book signings and more. Admission to the museum is free.

Sat., Feb. 8, 2020 – Chantilly, VA
African American Pioneers in Aviation
The February Family Days at Smithsonian Air and Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center celebrate the significant contributions African Americans have made to flight and space exploration. Visitors can hear from Tuskegee Airman Gen. Charles McGee (just recently named honorary Brigadier General) at 2:30 pm, learn about the “Triple Nickles” smokejumpers while designing and building a parachute, view special collections, and enjoy special presentations, story times, and a puppet show. Free admission; parking $15.

Sat., Feb. 8, 2020 – Alexandria, VA
Black History Celebration in Alexandria
This free event, 2-6 pm at Gum Springs Community Center, features entertainment plus an entrepreneurship-focused presentation on the principles of starting and maintaining a business.

Sat., Feb. 15, 2020 – Alexandria, VA
Frederick Douglass Celebration
The National Park service celebrates both Frederick Douglass and the women’s suffrage movement with a free, all-day event. Frederick Douglass and Women’s Suffrage: Celebrating the 202nd Birthday of Frederick Douglass and the Centennial of the 19th Amendment takes place at multiple sites in Washington, DC.

Fri., Feb. 21, 2020 – Fairfax, VA
Annual Fairfax County Black History Month Celebration
This family-friendly program begins with a reception 6-7:30 pm at the Government Center, followed by the main event at 7:35 pm in the board room. This free event, from 6 pm to 9 pm, features remarks from community leaders and live entertainment including choir music and dance presentations. There will be a  keynote by County Executive Bryan Hill and a special performance by the South County Teen Center Step Team.

Sat, Feb. 22, 2020 – Falls Church, VA
Black History Program and Gallery
The Bailey’s Community Center hosts a special event starting at noon, free and open to the community. The History Gallery opens at noon; program featuring music, dancing, poetry and guest speakers begins at 2 p.m.

Know of any other family-friendly Black History Month celebrations we should include? Let us know, as we will be updating this list soon! Thanks!