February is Black History Month which means organizations across the metro are hosting a variety of family-friendly events for families who want to explore black history and culture. Here are several local events happening in the Oklahoma City metro.

(Editor’s note: This is a working lists last updated Jan. 31, 2020. Check back often for updates. If you know of any events not included in this list, please let us know by emailing calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com.)

Feb. 4 & 11

Regal Cinemas is hosting free screenings of the film, Harriet, in honor of Black History Month. Based on the thrilling and inspirational life of an iconic American freedom fighter, Harriet tells the extraordinary tale of Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes. Screenings are free but tickets are required. Show times at the Moore Warren Theater are 7 & 9:30 p.m.

Feb. 4 – 23

Dance is a key component of expression for many cultures. Local performers from the R.A.C.E. Dance Collective will explore the history of hip hop with several performances at the Metropolitan Library System. The group will tour several locations throughout the month and all ages are welcome to attend. Visit www.metrolibrary.org for a complete schedule.

Feb. 5

**Editor’s Note: The Cowgirls of Color event has been postponed due to the forecast of incliment weather. More information coming soon on reschedule date. 

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum welcomes the Cowgirls of Color, an all-black, all-female rodeo team. The cowgirls invite metro students and families to take part in a special program demonstrating grit, gusto and determination. The event is free to attend, but registration is required. Preregister online at nationalcowboymuseum.org. Activities will start at 10:30 a.m.

Feb. 6

Colonial Williamsburg’s Stephen Seals will portray James Armistead Lafayette at a History Alive! event at the Oklahoma History Center. Lafayette, born in 1748, was enlisted as a spy for the Continental forces. After the war ended, he fought for his freedom for another five years before finally gaining it in 1787. The program begins at 7 p.m. and tickets are $10 for museum members and $20 for nonmembers.

Feb. 6 – April 30

Inclusion in Art – Spirit of Color at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features works of art by nine prolific artists of color living in Oklahoma, honoring their long standing commitment to the arts, community, sacrifice and achievements. Adults, $7; kids (6-17), $5; kids (5 & under), free. Tuesday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Feb. 15

The Oklahoma History Center is hosting an Oklahoma African American Family Film Festival. Videos, films and raw, unedited footage will document the history and culture of the African American experience in Oklahoma. The festival is free and open to the public but seating is limited. See website for a list of films and show times.

Local historian Bruce Fisher will share about one of the worst, but least known, incidents of racial violence with recorded firsthand accounts from survivors, the Tulsa Race Massacre, at the Downtown Library from 2 – 3 p.m. Because of the topics discussed the program may not be suitable for all ages so parental discretion is advised.

Feb. 22

Heart Studios in Edmond is showcasing the artistic contributions of women of color with a special exhibition. On Feb. 22, families can mingle with featured artists and enjoy some light snacks and drinks from 6 – 10 p.m. Tickets are $10 and proceeds will benefit art programs for children.

Feb. 23

An annual community tradition for 16 years, the Crowns Tea, hosted at the Norman Central Library, celebrates the rich traditions of literature, music and church hats for African American women. Attendees will hear a reading from the book Crowns by Michael Cunningham and Craig Marberry while sipping tea. Everyone is encouraged to wear their own fancy hat! The event begins at 2 p.m. and is free, but a ticket is required as space is limited. Tickets are available at all three Norman libraries.

For even more local events and things to do, visit our searchable calendar fill with family-friendly events every day of the week. Or sign up for our enewsletters to get all of MetroFamily’s best resources sent right to your inbox!