February is Black History Month, and whether you’re a college student in Philadelphia, or a young professional in the region, you’ve got plenty of opportunities to celebrate Black history & culture this month. Philadelphia offers so many exciting museums, activities, and more to educate, elevate, and connect with your Philly community—and Campus Philly has rounded up eight ways to get started.
Here are Campus Philly’s top Black History Month recommendations for 2023.
Photo Credit: TimeOut
1. Visit The African American Museum in Philadelphia
The What: The African American Museum in Philadelphia is a celebration of African American history, culture, and art. The museum is divided into three major themes: the African Diaspora, the Philadelphia Story, and the Contemporary Narrative.
The Where: 701 Arch Street
The When: All month
The Deal: $10 with your student ID
Photo Credit: VisitPhilly
2. Black History Month Civic Heroes Trolley Tour
The What: A 90-minute trolley tour around Philadelphia learning the history behind murals centering iconic Black individuals and themes of social justice. This tour will cover the stories behind the artwork as well as information about the artists who created them!
The Where: 128 N. Broad Street
The When: February 5 and February 25 10:00 am-11:30 am
The Deal: $38 per person. Get tickets here!
Photo Credit: Hakim’s Bookstore
3. Visit the oldest Black-Owned Bookstore in Philadelphia: Hakim’s Bookstore
The What: Opened in the late 1950’s by Dawud Hakim, Hakim’s Bookstore specializes in books about African American history and culture. The store quickly became nationally renowned for access to rare books. Although Dr. Hakim died of cancer in 1997, the bookstore is still owned and operated by his family to this day.
The Where: 210 S 52nd St
The When: Open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 12-6pm; and Saturdays 11-6pm
Photo Credit: Philadelphia Museum of Art
4. Attend the Black History Month Celebration at the Philadelphia Museum of Art or Complete the Self-Guided Tour
The What: Join the Philadelphia Museum of Art for a day of activities in celebration of Black History Month. The morning kicks off with a program highlighting various local organizations and community leaders, and includes a performance by the Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church Choir. Following the program, various performances and tours are held throughout the day highlighting the work of Black artists at the PMA! The full schedule can be found here.
The Where: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway
The When: February 25 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Can’t make it on Feb. 25? A self-guided museum tour about Black artists is available daily starting February 16.
The Deal: FREE on Feb. 25! $14 for students on other days; and pay-what-you-wish every Friday night and the first Sunday of the month.
Photo Credit: Arden Theatre
5. See Clyde’s by Lynn Nottage at the Arden Theatre Company
The What: “Just outside of Reading, PA, a truck-stop sandwich shop offers its formerly incarcerated kitchen staff a shot at redemption as they find purpose and inspiration in their shared quest to create the perfect sandwich. The regional premiere of the TONY-nominated play by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage.” Helmed by both a Black playwright and director, Clyde’s is a great way to immerse yourself in the Philadelphia theatre scene while celebrating Black artists.
The Where: 40 N 2nd St
The When: January 26-March 5
The Deal: February 9 is Young Friends Night! Use code YFARDEN for $30 tickets and enjoy a pre-show reception. Student rush tickets are also available in-person for $10 cash 30 minutes before each show. Students receive $5 off advance tickets.
Photo Credit: City of Philadelphia
6. Attend Black History Month Events at the Free Library
The What: The Free Library of Philadelphia is offering several events at various locations throughout the month to celebrate Black culture and history! Join a discussion about Black politics in West Philadelphia with author James Wolfinger of “If There Is No Struggle, There Is No Progress” or enjoy a free jazz concert by the Renaissance Orchestra highlighting Black composers.
The Where: Click here to view a list of locations and find the library closest to you, or click here to view all events regardless of location!
The When: All month
The Deal: FREE!
Photo Credit: National Constitution Center
7. 13th Amendment Exhibit at the National Constitution Center (In Person or Online)
The What: Visit the National Constitution Center to view an exhibit on the multifaceted 13th Amendment. The display also highlights pivotal Black historical figures and relevant artifacts. Can’t make it in person? View the virtual display here.
The Where: 525 Arch Street
The When: Wednesday-Sunday 10-5pm
The Deal: Virtual exhibit is FREE! $10 to visit in person (if you purchase ahead online).
Photo Credit: Callowhill Greens
8. Support Black-Owned Businesses (Year-Round!)
Philadelphia is home to so many Black-owned businesses! Next time you need to run an errand or grab a coffee, see if you can do it at a Black-owned shop!
Looking for inspiration? Check out our guide: Black-Owned Businesses in Philly: Eat, Shop, and Explore.
Photo Credit: Debora Charmelus
Bonus: Buy Tickets to CADO!
CADO: Black Art Fair & Makers Market will take place on February 19, 2023, at Underground Concepts in the Divine Lorraine, the first desegregated hotel in the country. Curated by Debora Charmelus, this Black-centered market serves as an incubator and allows creatives from across the region to meet, support, and discover Black-owned or led brands. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Colored Girls Museum. Learn more here!
