There are not only endless learnings and homages but also powerful ways to celebrate and be joyful. 

Although this is a year-round truth, having a month dedicated to the trials and triumphs of the Black community in Toronto and beyond is something many look forward to. And there is a lot to look forward to this year!

KUUMBA

February 1–29, 2024

As Toronto’s largest Black Futures Month celebration, KUUMBA offers an exciting lineup of dance, music, workshops, visual arts and more. 

With this year’s theme of voice and joyful expression front and centre, the programming kicks off with a keynote speech from New York Times best-selling author Angie Thomas (The Hate You Give). 

Although we’re excited about everything this festival offers at Harbourfront Centre, we’re especially excited for Jully Black in concert, which will be opened by up-and-coming R&B songstress Aqyila, on February 17.

Young People's Theatre Presents: Truth

February 1–23, 2024

Director-playwright duo Sabryn Rock and Kanika Ambrose from Scarborough present a powerful new play for Young Audiences based on the Governor General Award Winning novel The Gospel Truth. 

Young People's Theatre Presents: Truth follows the story of Phoebe, a brave 16-year-old, a mysterious newcomer from the north, and a web of secrets that could alter destinies. From the American South to St. Catharines, Ontario, Truth captures the unwavering spirit and resilience of a community fighting for freedom.

Tickets are available for this can't-miss performance online through Young People's Theatre.

 

Black Defenders of Upper Canada Tour

February 1–29, 2024

Toronto History Museums is back with the Black Defenders of Upper Canada Tour at Fort York. 

As part of its Lifting Voices for Belonging series, which celebrates the many contributions and the enduring legacy of Black communities on this land now known as Canada, you will learn about the connections between global trade, global consumption and the African Diaspora through an exploration of ingredients used in the historic kitchen.

 

Black History Month Art and Culture Celebration 

February 1, 2024 

What can only be an evolution of Everbloom, which launched online in 2021 by Waveland Canada, this Black History Month Art & Culture Event will be a vibrant celebration honouring Black Canadian achievements in arts and culture, featuring local vendors, performances, storytelling, and visual artists. And best of all, it’s free for all.

 

The Space Race

February 2–9, 2024

An exploration of the experiences of the first Black astronauts through the decades, The Space Race is a reflective illumination of the burden of breaking barriers. Showing at Hot Docs, with a relaxed screening on February 4, it includes stories from Guion Bluford, Ed Dwight and Charles Bolde.

Directors Diego Hurtado de Mendoza and Lisa Cortés profile the pioneering Black pilots, scientists and engineers who joined NASA to serve their country in space, even as their country failed to achieve equality for them back on Earth.

Toronto Black Film Festival 

February 15–20, 2024 

Taking place online and in person, the 12th Toronto Black Film Festival is dedicated to celebrating the very best in cinematic work centred on African, Caribbean, African American, and Black Canadian narratives. 

Whether you tune in to one screening or invest in an all-access pass, you won’t be disappointed by the selection of independent films. You might even recognize some stars, including Jackie Brown and Pam Grier. 

 

Black Grapes 

February 21, 2024

Spice Food and Wine Group presents Black Grapes, a tasting event celebrating Black winemakers and their wines. Curated by sommelier Beverly Crandon, there will be a selection of wines from Canada, the United States, South Africa, and more. 

Hosted at Fort York Visitor Centre, there will also be plenty of snacks from the Caribbean and Western Africa.

 

The Trending Table

February 24, 2024

Popping up at stackt market, The Trending Table is an opportunity to celebrate and support Black-owned businesses. From trendy fashion to handmade crafts, there’s something for everyone. 

This vibrant gathering, where creativity and entrepreneurship thrive, is also a great place to network. The first 30 people who arrive will walk away with a swag bag!

Black Diamond Ball

February 24, 2024

An exclusive event at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, the Black Diamond Ball is a glamorous way to wrap up celebrating Black History Month. 

For the past eight years, it has brought together the Black community and its supporters to applaud accomplishments and honour individuals who have excelled in their respective fields. 

It also aims to connect, which it will achieve through a workshop series taking place throughout the month, as well as a virtual marketplace.