From Black cowboys who shaped Lone Star ranches to the opening of the first Black-owned boutique hotel, Black people have long contributed to Texas' history. While it’s important to celebrate Black History year-round, February is an opportunity to highlight the contributions that Black people have made to Texas through food, culture, art and more. Thankfully, Texas is so big that there’s plenty of ways to celebrate this month-long event.
Texas’ culinary scene owes much of its richness to Black chefs, and there are plenty of Black-owned restaurants worth visiting. Whether you’re looking for smoked meats at Gatlin’s BBQ in Houston or Creole delights from Ma Harper’ Creole Kitchen in San Antonio, there’s no shortage of restaurants to try. Find a complete list of Black-owned restaurants here.
When: February 8, 2025 from 10am to 1pm
Musically-inclined attendees should make it a point to stop by the Dallas Public Library, where you can learn about West African drumming traditions. Between 11am and 1pm, watch Bandan Koro drummers perform traditional songs, while learning about the instrument’s history.
When: February 8, 2025 from 11am to 1pm
Jot your thoughts down at the Houston Public Library’s Black History Month Relax and Write event. A facilitator will lead a creative writing workshop inspired by American writer and folklorist Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God. The class is free, but registration is required.
When: February 21, 2025 from 7pm to 9pm
Sip on your favorite wine, beer or bubbly while enjoying a fun night of painting and celebrating Black culture. Local artists will guide the session, and guests can take home their artwork. It’s an event you don’t want to miss!
When: February 15, 2025 from 12pm to 4pm
In honor of Black History Month, Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co. will host an afternoon of live music, a flower arrangement workshop and a market featuring Black-owned businesses selling art, food and handmade goods. With the exception of the workshop, which costs $20, the event is free for all ages.
When: February 22, 2025 from 1pm to 4pm
Head to The Dock Bookshop for a community gathering featuring activities like arts and crafts jewelry making, African drumming, Black History Bingo and books by Black authors. This family-friendly event is free to attend.
When: Exhibit available until February 9, 2025
Don’t miss the chance to learn about Black cowboys at The Witte Museum. The exhibit explores the roles of Black men, women and children who participated on cattle drives and labored on Texas ranches as both free and enslaved individuals. Learn their stories through artifacts, photos and documents.
When: February 22, 2025 from 10am to 4pm
Join the San Antonio African American Community Archive and Museum’s second annual Black History Month Art Market. You’ll find a showcase of Black artists and artisans, a community painting project, activities for children, music, poetry readings and talks from labor history experts. It’s going to be a fun-filled afternoon of creativity, connection and culture.
Discover Time Out original video
