In the 1920s scholar Carter G. Woodson founded a movement to celebrate Black heritage and achievements. February was named Black History Month in 1976, primarily because the second week of the month — this week! — coincides with the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Lincoln was influential in the emancipation of slaves. Douglass, a former slave, was a prominent leader of the abolitionist movement that fought to end slavery.

Home to intellectual leaders like Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois, Booker T. Washington, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Atlanta has played a pivotal role in black history. All year long locals and tourists flock to historic sites like the Martin Luther King, Jr. Visitors Center, the Sweet Auburn Historic District, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Celebrate Black History Month this February at these special events near our Midtown Atlanta office:

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Feb 10-13 | Fox Theatre
Celebrate Artistic Director Robert Battle’s 10th anniversary season with new works, audience favorites, and beloved classics, including the timeless Revelations.

Night of Rhythm & Blues with Crissy Collins and PURE
Feb 19 at 7 pm | Center Stage Atlanta
Actress and singer Crissy Collins partners up with PURE to reach hearts through soulful and honest musical storytelling.

For the Love of Black Art 
Feb 22 from 6-8 pm | Bellyard Boutique Hotel
Head to West Midtown to enjoy incredible art from local Black artists Melissa Mitchell, Marryam Moma, Craig Singleton, Golden Aurelian and Ashley Dopson. Guests can also indulge in light bites and champagne while listening to live music.

Black Joy: A Night of Comedy with Sampson McCormick
Feb 22 at 7 pm | Mixx Atlanta
Laugh along with award winning comedian and LGBTQ icon Sampson McCormick.