Celebrate Black History Month with These Orlando Events
As Black History Month 2025 comes to a close, there are still opportunities to honor and celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of the African American community. This blog highlights standout events in Orlando that offer a meaningful way to close out the month through art, culture, music, and community engagement. And if you’re looking for more ways to show support, be sure to check out our previous blog featuring Black-owned businesses in the area!
Experience the Visual Arts Exhibit at Orlando City Hall
The arts have long been an integral part of Black culture, serving as a powerful medium to express history, struggle, triumph, and resilience. In recognition of this, the City of Orlando hosted an open call for local artists to showcase the diverse richness of African American history through visual arts.
This year’s exhibit features 32 talented local visual artists, all inspired by the national Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor.” The artwork reflects the depth and significance of labor in Black culture—spanning from free and unfree work to skilled trades, professional careers, vocational expertise, and voluntary contributions. The exhibition highlights and honors the transformative role of labor in Black experiences while reinforcing Orlando’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable community.
Exhibition Details:
? Dates: January 31 – March 30, 2025
⏰ Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
? Location: The Terrace Gallery, Orlando City Hall, 1st Floor
? Address: 400 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
Meet the Artists: A Special Reception
For a more immersive experience, consider attending “Meet the Artists,” a special reception hosted by the Downtown Orlando Partnership and sponsored by Orlando Credit Union. This free event offers an opportunity to engage with the artists featured in the Black History Month exhibition, learn about their creative processes, and hear the stories behind their works. Enjoy thought-provoking conversations, networking, and complimentary refreshments as you connect with the local art community.
Event Details:
? Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
⏰ Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
? Location: The Terrace Gallery, Orlando City Hall, 1st Floor
? Address: 400 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
☕ Bonus: A continental breakfast will be provided.
? RSVP: Space is limited, so be sure to secure your spot early!
Hot 8 Brass Band – Big Tuba Tour
Grammy Award winners Hot 8 Brass Band will bring their Big Tuba Tour to The Abbey in downtown Orlando to close out Black History Month. The New Orleans-based octet will combine their traditional jazz heritage with elements of funk, hip hop, rap, and bounce music for a toe-tapping good time.
Event Details:
? Date: February 28, 2025
? Location: The Abbey, Downtown Orlando
Celebrating Black History at Winter Garden Heritage Museum
The Celebrating Black Heritage exhibit at the Winter Garden Heritage Museum presents a selection of photographs documenting the history and accomplishments of Winter Garden’s African American community. The exhibit honors advances made in education, business, and politics over the past century that have contributed to social change. Admission is free.
Exhibit Details:
? Dates: Tuesdays – Saturdays, through March 31, 2025
? Location: Winter Garden Heritage Museum
Reflection of Time III at Winter Garden City Hall
The popular Reflections of Time III gallery returns to Winter Garden City Hall for a third year, highlighting the journey of African American artists from Winter Garden and surrounding Central Florida areas. Early attendees can enjoy an opening reception and gallery walk with curator Patrick Noze of Winter Park’s Crealdé School of Art on January 9.
Exhibit Details:
? Dates: Weekdays, January 9 – February 28, 2025
? Location: Winter Garden City Hall
Living the Dream Exhibition by JoKeeta
The Orange County Administration Center will host a special exhibition of stunning stained glass by visual artist JoKeeta on select dates throughout February. Many of her past works feature legendary figures like Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and Sojourner Truth, leading to her selection as the Black History Committee of Orange County’s artist of the year.
Exhibit Details:
? Dates: Select dates, February 3 – 27, 2025
? Location: Orange County Administration Center, Atrium Gallery
These events provide a fantastic opportunity to close out Black History Month with engaging and enriching experiences. Whether enjoying live music, reflecting on history through visual arts, or engaging with local artists, take this time to honor and celebrate the rich contributions of African American culture.
How will you honor Black History Month in Orlando as it comes to a close?