As we step into the month of February, Dayton, Ohio, comes alive with a vibrant celebration of Black History Month. Destination Dayton invites you to join us in honoring the rich and diverse heritage of the African American community in our city. From captivating performances to immersive cultural experiences and delicious dining, Dayton offers an array of ways to commemorate this significant month.
Events
Muse Machine’s “The Dayton Funk Legacy” will be an experience teaching guests about Dayton’s history with the funk music genre. Held at the Dayton Metro Library’s Main Branch in downtown Dayton on Friday, February 13, 4-6 p.m., the free event will feature live music and audience participation.
2. Black History Mausoleum Tour at Woodland Cemetery
Woodland Cemetery & Arboretum will offer a special tour of its indoor mausoleum, featuring beautiful stained glass windows and telling the stories of George C. Cooper, James Parsons, W. S. McIntosh , Bob and Norma Ross and many others. If weather permits, the tour will also include a walk to the gravesites of James H. McGee, Jordan Anderson, Paul Laurence Dunbar and others. The tour will be offered on two Saturdays, February 7 & 21, at 2 p.m. Advance reservations are required and the cost is $5 per person.
3. Programs at your local Dayton Metro Library
Throughout February, library branches across Montgomery County will host a variety of activities, from thought-provoking discussions to cultural events and creative workshops. These activities honor the rich history and contributions of African Americans. Check out some of what's happening:
February 7: Black History Month: Glory @ Southeast Branch from 2-4 p.m.
February 9: Crafty Kids Black History Month Edition: Paul Lawrence Dunbar Poetry @ Southeast Branch from 4-5 p.m.
February 9: African American Genealogy @ Northwest Branch from 5-6 p.m.
February 9: Telling Our Stories Why Representation Matters @ Vandalia Branch from 5:50-6:30 p.m.
February 9: Toddler & Preschool Dance Party: Black History Month Edition @ West Carrollton Branch from 10:30-11 a.m.
February 10: Underground Railroad Explorations: Codes @ Northwest Branch from 4-5:30 p.m.
February 11: Movie Night: The Princess and the Frog @ Trotwood Branch from 4-5:30 p.m.
These are just a few of the numerous events that our great public library system will be holding for the month. To find an event of interest to you, be sure to check out the full calendar of events at the Dayton Metro Library website and don't forget to get a library card. 😉
4. Dayton Contemporary Dance Company's Black by Popular Demand
A breathtaking evening is set to unfold as Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) presents Black by Popular Demand – four powerhouse works that capture the heart of African American culture through movement. From the gospel celebration of In My Father’s House to the civil rights reflection of Martyr’s Road, from the ancestral rhythms of WAWA ABA to the intimate connections of Call(ing), this concert delivers the emotional range and artistic excellence audiences return for again and again. This is more than a performance – it’s a powerful experience that you won’t want to miss on February 28 (7:30 p.m.) & March 1 (4 p.m.) at the Victoria Theatre. Grab your tickets before they sell out!
5. Black History Month Celebration at The Cozy Book Nook
The Cozy Book Nook, located at 1400 E. Third St., will host several area African American authors, who will sign copies of their books and tell their stories. This free event takes place February 21 from 12 to 4 p.m.
This is just a small sampling of area events - you can find more things to do at our Calendar of Events and in this Dayton Daily News feature.
Destination Dayton is also proud to sponsor the Top 10 African American Males Luncheon on February 12, as well as the YWCA Women of Influence Luncheon on March 12. Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s Debbie Blunden-Diggs, who is also a Destination Dayton Board of Trustees member, will be among those recognized at the latter.
Dining & Shopping
Dayton boasts a thriving community of Black-owned businesses. Whether you're seeking unique handmade crafts, delectable cuisine, wellness services, fashion finds, or event venues, there's an inspiring variety of options waiting for you to explore. If you're eager to support these local visionaries and their ventures, we invite you to visit our Black-Owned Businesses page. Here you'll discover an extensive directory encompassing a diverse spectrum of businesses across Montgomery County. By patronizing these establishments, you not only discover exceptional products and services, but also contribute to the growth and prosperity of these businesses, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic economic landscape in Dayton.
Want to learn more? Morgan Pelt from Columbus Living Blog visited our city recently and gave her thoughts on her experience at a few of these local businesses! You can also check out her Reels highlighting diverse experiences in Dayton and the 6888 Kitchen Incubator at the Dayton Arcade.
Attractions
1. Visit Paul Laurence Dunbar House & Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center
Step into the world of legendary African American poet, Paul Laurence Dunbar, at his historic home. Discover the legacy of the first African American to achieve financial independence through his writing. This 1904 house, where Dunbar lived until his passing in 1906, is a beautifully preserved time capsule. Explore the space where he created literary masterpieces and see his original typewriter and a bicycle gifted to him by the Wright Brothers. The home is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., every weekend (Friday - Sunday), but has special events scheduled for Black History Month, including "Paul's Collaborations into Popular Music", "Buffalo Soldier Love Stories" and more that can be found on the National Park Service calendar.
Learn more about both Dunbar AND the Wright Brothers at the nearby Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center. Explore a variety of interpretive exhibits and displays which give more insight into their lives. It is also home to the Aviation Trail Parachute Museum. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Both the Paul Laurence Dunbar house and the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center are a part of the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.
2. Learn about the Tuskegee Airmen at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force™
The National Museum of the United States Air Force™ pays tribute to the courageous Tuskegee Airmen, who defied racial segregation to become true heroes in the skies, with an exhibit in their World War II gallery. During WWII, most African American soldiers were limited to support roles, but the Tuskegee Airmen proved that given equal opportunities and training, they could excel in combat. Their distinguished service not only contributed to victory in the war but also played a pivotal role in the eventual integration of the U.S. armed forces, with the U.S. Air Force leading the way. The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is open seven days a week and admission is FREE!
3. Explore African American Art at Local Galleries & Museums
Dayton's institutions like the Dayton Art Institute, Willis "Bing" Davis Studio and Ebonnia Gallery, Edward A. Dixon Gallery and The Contemporary have been integral in showcasing the work of African American artists. These venues provide platforms for both emerging and established talent, fostering greater appreciation and understanding of the diverse cultures that make Dayton unique. Through their efforts, they continue to enrich the city's vibrant arts scene!
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This Black History Month, Dayton, Ohio, offers a wide and enriching array of experiences to celebrate the African American community's heritage and contributions. We encourage you to explore these events and activities (as well as other events happening around the community), support local businesses and embrace the rich cultural tapestry that makes Dayton a remarkable destination.
Be sure to get your FREE Destination Dayton Visitors Guide and download the FREE Destination Dayton App for more about things to see and do in Dayton. For more information about Destination Dayton and the services it offers, explore our website or call 800-221-8235.
