Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington is preparing to mark Black History Month in 2026 with a series of public events designed to celebrate history, creativity, and community connection, beginning with a citywide kick-off gathering in early February.
Residents and visitors are invited to attend the Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Bloomington City Hall, located at 401 N. Morton Street. Doors will open at 3:30 p.m., with the formal program beginning at 4 p.m. inside the Council Chambers. The event is free and open to the public, and organizers say it is intended to be welcoming and accessible for people of all ages.
This year’s theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” reflects on the long tradition of honoring Black history in the United States while highlighting the individuals, movements, and cultural contributions that continue to shape communities today. City officials say the theme also encourages residents to engage with history through music, performance, storytelling, and youth expression.
The kick-off celebration will center on a performing arts showcase featuring local students, artists, and community performers. The program, titled Showcasing the Performing Arts, will be emceed by Nia I’man Smith, a doctoral candidate in ethnomusicology and the host of Sonic Blacknuss on WFHB. Organizers say the evening will spotlight a range of artistic voices and styles that reflect Bloomington’s diverse creative community.
Performers scheduled to appear include the Indiana University African American Choral Ensemble, Fairview Elementary School Show Choir and Drummers, and the Bloomington Montessori School Chorus. The program will also feature poetry by Jada Chivers and performances by the Black, Brown, and Beige Theatre Troupe. Together, the lineup brings students, educators, and professional artists onto the same stage, emphasizing intergenerational participation.
City leaders say the kickoff event is meant to set the tone for the rest of the month by centering local talent and creating space for shared reflection and celebration. The event also serves as an invitation for the broader community to take part in additional activities planned throughout February.
One of those events is the Black Market, scheduled for Saturday, February 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at City Hall. The public market will feature Black-owned businesses, creators, and organizations. The event acknowledges the history of Bloomington’s original Black Market while providing direct support to today’s entrepreneurs. Organizers say the market is an opportunity for residents to shop locally while learning more about the people and stories behind the businesses.
Youth participation will also be highlighted later in the month through the Black History Month Poster Board Contest Ceremony. The recognition event will take place on Saturday, February 21, from 12 to 2 p.m. at City Hall. Artwork created by local youth will be showcased and honored, giving young people a platform to share how they understand and interpret Black history and culture.
The month’s events will conclude with the Black History Month Gala on Saturday, February 28, at One World at Woolery Mill, located at 2250 W. Sunstone Drive, Suite 100. The gala is designed as an evening of dining, music, and recognition. It will honor the 2026 Living Legend recipients as well as the Commission on the Status of Black Males’ Outstanding Black Leaders of Tomorrow.
The gala schedule includes a reception and silent auction beginning at 6 p.m., followed by the main program at 7 p.m. Tickets must be reserved in advance and are available through the Buskirk-Chumley Theater Box Office, online, or by phone. City officials note that financial assistance is available through sponsorships to help ensure broader access to the event.
Organizers emphasize that Black History Month in Bloomington is not limited to a single day or audience. Instead, the month-long schedule is intended to encourage learning, celebration, and connection across the community. By offering a mix of performances, markets, youth events, and formal recognition, the City aims to honor history while supporting present-day voices and leadership.
A complete schedule of events and additional details can be found at bloomington.in.gov/bhm.
