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Toronto is packed this February with Black History Month events, from film screenings and art exhibitions to live music, talks, and cultural celebrations—many of them free. Here’s what’s happening around the city this month.
Related Posts:
Best Things To Do in Toronto This February
Best Free Things To Do in Toronto This February
1. KUUMBA
Toronto’s largest and longest-running Black Futures Month festival, celebrating the rich histories, achievements, and creative brilliance of Black communities through multidisciplinary programming including music, dance, theatre, literature, wellness, and community dialogue.
Where: Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay W)
When: Running throughout February 2026 (times vary by event)
Price: Mix of free and ticketed programming
Category: Date-friends
2. 38th Annual: Black History Month Kick Off Brunch
A community kickoff hosted by the Ontario Black History Society that opens Black History Month with a celebratory brunch bringing together leaders, storytellers, and community members. The event centres reflection, recognition, and connection while honouring Black history, achievements, and legacy.
Where: The Ontario Government Building (25 British Columbia Rd)
When: February 1st, 2026 (12:00 PM)
Price: Starting at $20
Category: Date-friends
3. AFROFUTURISM: OCAD University
This exhibition explores Afrofuturism through contemporary art, inviting viewers to consider Black identity, history, and imagined futures through creative expression. Featuring work by a range of artists.
Where: Great Hall of OCAD University, 2nd floor (100 McCaul St)
When: February 2nd - 15th, 2026 (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
Price: Free
Category: Date-friends
4. Youth Hub: Black History Trivia
A youth-focused trivia event by the Toronto Public Library that celebrates Black history and culture through interactive games highlighting influential figures, moments, and contributions from Black communities.
Where: Toronto Reference Library (789 Yonge St)
When: February 3rd, 2026 (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
Price: Free
Category: Date-friends
5. Celebrating Black History Exhibition
This exhibition features contemporary artworks by Black artists that reflect and celebrate cultural identity, with a focus on creative expression through textile-based mediums. Curated by Director Phil Anderson, the show highlights diverse approaches to material, storytelling, and craftsmanship.
Where: Gallery 1313 (1313 Queen St W)
When: February 4th - 15th, 2026 (1:00 PM)
Price: Free
Category: Date-friends
6. Black History Month Showcase
A showcase hosted by the Canada Black Music Archives featuring live performances by Black artists that highlight the depth, diversity, and influence of Black music. The event celebrates Black cultural legacy while creating space for connection, creativity, and community.
Where: City Of Toronto Archives (255 Spadina Rd)
When: February 5th, 2026 (5:00 PM)
Price: Free
Category: Date-friends
7. Love Local: Valentine’s Day Market
Celebrate Valentine’s Day while supporting BIPOC-owned businesses at a community market centred on love, creativity, and local talent. Featuring a curated lineup of vendors, the event offers unique finds, meaningful gifts, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Where: St. Matthew's United Church (729 Saint Clair Ave W)
When: February 7th, 2026 (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM)
Price: Free (reserve your spot)
Category: Date-friends
8. Marching North: Book Launch
Honour Marching North, a children’s picture book recognizing the stories of Caribbean soldiers who served Canada during the First and Second World Wars. Guests are invited to gather for an afternoon of reflection, with appetizers and refreshments provided.
Where: Blackhurst Cultural Centre (777-779 Bathurst St)
When: February 7th, 2026 (2:00 PM - 3:30 PM)
Price: Free
Category: Date-Friends
9. Toronto Black Film Festival
The Toronto Black Film Festival showcases films by Black filmmakers that explore history, identity, and contemporary Black experiences from around the world. Through screenings and conversations, the festival amplifies underrepresented voices and fosters cultural understanding through cinema.
Where: Multiple locations
When: February 6th, 2026 (7:00 PM - 10:00 PM)
Price: Different ticketing options
Category: Date-Friends
10. Black Futures: Hart House
Black Futures is a program series rooted in Afrofuturism that brings together art, conversation, wellness, and community for Black students and community members. Through creative sessions and cultural programming, it offers space for connection, reflection, and imagining future possibilities.
Where: Multiple locations
When: Running throughout February 2026 (times vary by event)
Price: Free (some events may require advance registration)
Category: Date-friends
11. A Celebration of Black Classical Music
A second-year celebration spotlighting Black excellence in classical music, featuring a talk by author and academic Cheryl Thompson. The evening highlights works by Black composers such as Shanyse Strickland, Dr. Adolphus Hailstork, Valerie Coleman, and Florence Price.
Where: Annette Studios (566 Annette St)
When: February 20th, 2026 (7:30 PM)
Price: Adults $35, Students $20, Seniors $25
Category: Date-friends
12. Blk History Month Reggae Fest
The second annual Toronto Black History Month Reggae Fest celebrates reggae culture with a high-energy night of live performances by Toronto artists, featuring foundation reggae, conscious sounds, and lovers rock, plus DJ sets throughout the evening.
Where: El Mocambo (464 Spadina Ave)
When: February 20th, 2026 (8:00 PM)
Price: $41.92
Category: Date-friends
Click here for the website.
13. Black History Month Market Pop-Ups
The pop-ups are curated shopping events that highlight and support Black-owned businesses and creators, giving local makers a platform to showcase their products. These community markets create welcoming spaces for discovery, connection, and celebration of Black entrepreneurship.
Where: Refer to online schedules for participating mall locations
When: February 20th - March 1st, 2026 (mall hours)
Price: Free to attend (purchases vary / vendor participation fees apply)
Category: Date-friends
14. Black History in Verse
An evening of free poetry honouring Black history, bringing together Toronto’s Poet Laureate Lillian Allen, Youth Poet Laureate Shahaddah Jack, and a group of guest poets for readings that celebrate voice, creativity, and community.
Where: City Of Toronto Archives (255 Spadina Rd)
When: February 27th, 2026 (6:30 PM - 8:30 PM)
Price: Free
Category: Date-friends
15. The Black Diamond Ball
The RBC Black Diamond Ball is an annual gala that recognizes Black excellence and community leadership, uniting changemakers, creatives, and supporters in celebration. The evening shines a light on cultural impact while supporting initiatives that strengthen and uplift Black communities.
Where: Liberty Grand (25 British Columbia Rd)
When: February 28th, 2026 (6:30 PM - 12:00 AM)
Price: $125
Category: Date-Friends
16. Jazz At The Pilot
This year marks The Pilot’s fourth Black History Month celebration, spotlighting Black-led jazz ensembles alongside poetry, DJ sets, and a historical presentation exploring the stories and contributions of Black Canadian artists.
Where: 22 Cumberland St
When: Saturdays - Sundays (times vary)
Price: Book tickets online per show
Category: Date-Friends
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