Family-friendly activities to celebrate Black History Month
There are countless engaging ways to celebrate Black History Month with toddlers. Whether exploring cultural museums, visiting historic landmarks, or participating in festive parades, there are opportunities to honor Black culture no matter where you live. To help you discover unique educational experiences for the whole family, we’ve curated a list of unique activities across the country that will inspire meaningful conversations with your little ones.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
City: Washington D.C.
Age: All ages
Price: Free
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is an ideal spot to celebrate Black History Month with your little ones. An immersive experience that brings black history and culture to life, the museum offers several exhibits suitable for children. The Culture and Community section, for example, highlights African American traditions, music, and art that encourage play with musical instruments, interactive soundscapes, and even dance spaces. They also offer kids story times, so be sure to explore their events calendar before your visit!
Apollo Theatre
Location: Harlem, NY
Age: 2-years and up
Price: Ticket prices vary per event
Known as the soul of American culture, the Apollo Theatre is a historic landmark and a symbol of the profound impact black culture has on the arts. A non-profit organization and cultural center, The Apollo Theatre is a wonderful place to bring children. Make sure to browse their education events and family-friendly programs in advance, or visit Amateur Night every Wednesday where performers of all ages (children, too!) are invited to get on stage and compete for a grand prize. Their educational programs include productions of children’s theatre, storytelling events, historic tours of the building, and so much more. You will not be disappointed visiting the Apollo Theatre — if you’re in New York, it’s a must-see.
The National Museum of African American Music
City: Nashville, TN
Age: All ages
Price: Free admission for children ages 0-5
The National Museum of African American Music offers a unique experience celebrating black culture and its incredible contribution to music. Designed to preserve the legacy and accomplishments of the many music genres created, influenced, and inspired by African Americans, the experience provided is both educational and fun. The museum’s offerings are interactive and engaging, including a historic film and various exhibits where you can listen to music genres throughout history. If you’re in Nashville, you won’t want to miss this!
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park
City: Atlanta, GA
Age: All ages
Price: Free
This eclectic historic park honors the life of Martin Luther King Jr. in an educational and engaging way. Mostly outdoors, the experience allows you to walk in King’s footsteps through the different phases of his life, including where he was born, lived, worked, worshiped, and is buried. A walking tour includes a visit to his birth home, his church where you can listen to famous speeches in his voice, and even the cemetery where he is buried. These sites have been preserved to offer a sense of what life was like during King’s time, making it an especially unique experience. After the tour, head over to the Sweet Auburn Historic District to support local black-owned shops and restaurants!
The Underground Museum
City: Los Angeles, CA
Age: All ages
Price: Free
The Underground Museum is dedicated to making world-class art accessible to everyone, while also supporting black leadership on a global scale. Known for displaying works that highlight black culture, history, and identity, it’s a wonderful place to introduce your little ones to African American heritage. They have many offerings for families, including educational activities and a beautiful garden.
Second-line parades
City: New Orleans, LA
Age: All ages
Price: Free
Second-line parades are unique to New Orleans and a great way to introduce your little ones to jazz music. The parades feature decorated floats, brass bands, lively dancing, and lots of music. This year on February 16, there is a performance by The Original C.T.C. Steppers, a group of talented dancers who perform the steppin’ or "second line" style of dancing. Deeply rooted in black culture, their routines involve rhythmic, energetic, and highly coordinated movements typically done in a line, and incorporate elements of traditional New Orleans jazz, funk, and R&B music. If you’re in New Orleans, you won’t want to miss these vibrant parades. Explore authentic restaurants in the area to eat delicious soul food before you go!
For more ideas on how to celebrate Black History Month with kids, head over to the Parenting Tips blog for more information. Check out Must-read books to celebrate Black History Month, Honoring Black History Month with toddlers and Honoring Black History Month: fun and educational activities for creative ways to educate your little ones!
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*Note that all prices listed in this article reflect costs as of February 2025, and may vary. Please refer to each organization's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
