The history of African Americans in Durham is as integral to the Bull City as the brick and mortar that built it. Grit, fortitude, and the unapologetic pursuit of justice define a community whose influence has helped move the nation closer to equality—locally and far beyond North Carolina.
As Durhamites and visitors alike, we stand on the shoulders of trailblazers who planted seeds of justice and opportunity generations ago. From historic Black Wall Street to today’s thriving arts, education, and entrepreneurial scenes, Durham continues to honor Black excellence in powerful ways. Whether you’re visiting during Black History Month or planning year-round cultural experiences, here’s your guide to celebrating Black history and culture in Durham, NC.
Annual Durham Events Celebrating Black History & Culture
Kwanzaafest
January 1, 2026
On New Year’s Day, the African American Dance Ensemble presents Kwanzaafest at the Durham Armory—a joyful celebration of African American heritage, culture, and family marking the final day of the seven-day holiday. All are welcome to participate in this vibrant community gathering.
Book Harvest’s Dream Big MLK Day
January 19, 2026
Each year around MLK Day, Book Harvest hosts Dream Big, a community-wide celebration of diversity, literacy, and access to books for all children. Donations of new or gently used children’s books are accepted from December 1 through January 31, and volunteers are always welcome.
MLK Commemoration & Day of Service at Duke University
January 17, 2026
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke at Duke’s Page Auditorium in 1964, shortly after the Civil Rights Act was signed into law. Duke commemorates his legacy each year with a free public service and a Day of Service honoring his commitment to justice and equity.
North Carolina Central University Black History Month Celebration
February 2026
NCCU hosts a full slate of free, public events throughout February, including film screenings, lectures, panels, and performances featuring nationally recognized activists, scholars, and artists.
Opening Program & Reception: February 4, 2026 | Miller-Morgan Auditorium | 6–7:30 p.m.
pARTies on Parrish
February 1–28, 2026
104 W. Parrish St.
Weird Productions and Black Robin Ventures transform Parrish Street into a month-long celebration of Black creativity. Expect art, poetry, storytelling, food, music, and science—plus a kickoff party on February 7.
Bull City in Black: HBCU Showcase
February 7, 2026 | 12–3 p.m.
Emily K Center
This free event highlights regional HBCUs and supports prospective students and families with workshops on financial aid, first-generation student experiences, resume support, and more.
Black History Month Guided Tours at the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice
February 7 & 21, 2026 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Hosted by Executive Director Angela Thorpe Mason, these guided tours focus on the life and legacy of Pauli Murray—civil rights activist, legal scholar, and trailblazer for social justice.
Black History Month Lecture at Duke University
February 17, 2026 | 6 p.m.
Penn Pavilion
Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz—author, educator, and daughter of Malcolm X—shares reflections on her father’s enduring legacy and the ongoing pursuit of liberation and human rights.
Melanated Creatives Market
February 21, 2026 | 3–8 p.m.
Durham Central Park
Support Black-owned businesses, artists, and makers while enjoying food trucks, community vibes, and local creativity.
Black Genius Fest
February 28, 2026
Black Wall Street – Parrish Street
Village of Wisdom takes over historic Black Wall Street with 20+ interactive dream stations celebrating Black genius—past, present, and future.
For the Culture Festival
February 28, 2026 | 3–10 p.m.
Durham Central Park
Live music, food trucks, family activities, Black-owned vendors, and a full day of celebration honoring Black History Month.
Durham Black History Walking Tour
Saturdays at 4 p.m. | CCB Plaza
Triangle Walking Tours guides participants through stories of Durham’s Black architects, activists, business leaders, and change-makers.
Year-Round Events Honoring Black History & Culture
Hayti Heritage Film Festival – March 6–7, 2026
Biscuits & Banjos Festival – Returning 2027
Biscuits & Banjos Presents: Rhiannon Giddens’ Beloved Community – April 27, 2026 at Durham Performing Arts Center
Beats N Bars Festival – TBD
Bimbé Cultural Arts Festival – May 16, 2026 NC
Juneteenth Celebration – June (dates vary)
Black Farmers Market – 1st & 3rd Sundays, April–November
Phoenix Fest – Fall (TBD)
NCCU Homecoming – October (TBD)
Blacktoberfest – Fall (TBD)
Historic Sites & Cultural Hubs
Historic Stagville – Preserving and teaching the lived experiences of enslaved people in North Carolina
Pauli Murray Center for History & Social Justice – Education, activism, and community engagement
Hayti Heritage Center – Celebrating 50 years of Black arts and culture
Black Wall Street (Parrish Street) – Legacy of Black entrepreneurship
Provident1898 – Coworking and innovation hub for Black entrepreneurs
Confronting Change Exhibit at the Carolina Theatre – Civil rights and desegregation history Soul Sanctuary – A creative refuge uplifting Black and BIPOC voices
Celebrating Black Artists & Storytellers
Whistle Stop Tours – Immersive performance-based Black history tours NCCU Art Museum – Dedicated to African American artists Nasher Museum of Art – Groundbreaking collections spotlighting artists of African descent
Plan Your Visit to Durham
Durham’s commitment to honoring Black history and culture is woven into its festivals, historic sites, public art, and community spaces. Whether you’re attending a February festival or exploring year-round landmarks, the Bull City offers countless opportunities to learn, reflect, and celebrate.
For more Triangle-area cultural events and local guides, keep it locked to DoRaleigh.com.
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