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. Here are some celebrations and special events taking place in Fairfax County:

Sat., February 9, 2019 – Washington, DC
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 will enjoy presentations, hands-on activities, and stories, and may have the opportunity to learn about astronauts, fighter pilots, and others and their stories of their challenges and accomplishments. The theme this year is “The Struggle for Equal Access to the Skies” and focuses on the Tuskegee Airmen. Free admission; parking $15.

Friday, Feb. 15, 2019 – Fairfax, VA
Annual Fairfax County and COX Communications 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. This year’s theme is ts “Know the Past, Shape the Future.”

All Month Long (Feb. 1-28, 2019) – 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.   

Know of any other family-friendly Black History Month celebrations we should include? Submit an event — we will be updating this list soon! Thanks!