Bloomington, Indiana – Indiana University Bloomington is preparing a full slate of events for Black History Month 2026, offering students, faculty, staff, and community members multiple ways to engage with history, culture, art, and celebration throughout February. Organized in partnership with campus and local groups, the lineup blends performance, education, athletics, and community connection.
One of the month’s earliest featured events is the Annual Black History Month Open Mic, hosted by Girls Rock Bloomington in partnership with the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center. Titled “Community Commemorations,” the event will take place on Sunday, February 8, at 5:00 p.m. in the NMBCC Grand Hall. This year’s program expands beyond spoken word and music to include visual storytelling, highlighting both performance and mixed media art.
Attendees can explore a multi-media gallery showcasing local Black history and lived experiences, while open mic performers share original work. The evening will also include a special performance from Lucky Seven and a guest appearance by Dr. Gladys DeVane, founder of Resilience Productions. Organizers say the event is designed to honor memory, creativity, and resilience while creating space for voices across generations.
Music continues to play a central role in Black History Month observances with the African American Choral Ensemble’s annual performance at the School of Education. Scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the School of Education Atrium, the lunchtime concert offers students and visitors an opportunity to experience choral traditions rooted in African American history and culture.
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Later in the month, the ensemble will mark a major milestone with its 50th Anniversary Concert. The performance is set for Saturday, February 21, at 7:30 p.m. at the Musical Arts Center. Tickets are currently on sale, with prices set at $20 for adults and $12 for students. Groups of 10 or more are eligible for a 20 percent discount, and group sales can be arranged by contacting Alexa Dow directly. The anniversary concert is expected to reflect on the ensemble’s legacy while celebrating its continued role on campus.
Black History Month programming will also extend into IU athletics with a women’s basketball matchup that blends school spirit and community pride. On Sunday, February 22, at 1:00 p.m., the IU women’s basketball team will face Oregon at Assembly Hall. Fans are encouraged to wear NMBCC or Black pride apparel and gather in section 10 near the band.
Student tickets for the game are free with a valid crimson card, while faculty and staff can claim two complimentary tickets through the university’s internal portal. General admission tickets are priced at $12 for adults, and youth tickets for ages 3 to 18 are $5. Organizers say the event offers another way to bring the campus community together while celebrating Black History Month in a high-energy setting.
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Together, the events reflect Indiana University’s broader approach to Black History Month, combining reflection, celebration, and participation. From galleries and open mics to choral performances and athletic events, the February schedule is designed to reach a wide audience and highlight the many ways Black history and culture shape campus life.
University leaders and organizers say the 2026 programming emphasizes connection, creativity, and visibility, inviting the campus and Bloomington community to learn, listen, and celebrate throughout the month.
