Black Cultural & Historical Activities for Children
Each year, I make a conscious decision to start planning ahead for QFT (quality family time), activities we will do during the half term holiday. I spend hours searching to find the best activities that will do three things. One: an activity that will educate. Two: Something unexpected. Three: To excite them to the point of exhaustion.
It can be challenging to secure the perfect pastime, however, with some historical walks, museum visits and music festivals you and your little ones will not be disappointed. So draw some inspiration from our ideas below and check out your local councils ‘What's on’ page for hidden gems to enjoy for the rest of the year.
Bristol May 28th 2022
Lebohang Kganye: ‘Dipina tsa Kganya’ – ‘Leave the light when you leave for good’ is a black and white video installation at The Georgian House Museum in Bristol. South African artist, Lebohang Kganye, invites us to reflect on the legacy of colonialism as a shared history. Audiences will learn about the historical erasure of names and oral traditions through this powerful art form. They will listen to the South African practice of the ‘praise-singing' and enjoy the creative production presented through perpetual motion. Entry to the Museum is free and you are welcome to drop-in but you can also pre-book a time slot to guarantee a spot.
Manchester May 29th 2022
The Manchester Jazz Festival welcomes Ayanna Witter - Johnson. A born and raised Londoner, Ayanna uncovers the hidden stories of her hometown through the lens of her Jamaican heritage. The singer / songwriter / cellist, with her unique blend of classically infused jazz, reggae and soul, presents a unique show of song and storytelling. This festival is great for all of the family. Tickets range from £12.50 Early Bird / £14.50 Advance or £16.50 On the Door.
London May 29th & 30th 2022
Black Power: Great black entrepreneurs children workshops is a virtual event aimed at children aged 8 - 16 years old. Charmaine Simpson of Black History Studies leads an inspirational workshop to learn about Black racial identity, pride and self - determination. Sankofa Sunday ‘Black Power: Black Entrepreneurs’ children workshops brings together the future leaders of this world in an interactive session. Tickets for the event can be found on eventbrite and are priced at £5.98.
Birmingham May 30th 2022
Black Heritage Walks Network highlights the achievements of the African Caribbean community in the UK, through numerous walks, exhibitions, films and educational workshops all in Birmingham. The Black heritage trail will focus on Ida B Wells who was an investigative journalist, educator, and early leader in the civil rights movement. The Fee for the walks is: Adults £11.00, Children (under 12) £5.00. For Private Tours and Group Bookings please contact us on: 07594 325579.
London May 31st 2022
African Djembe Drumming (under 16s) is a class for the whole family. You will engage in the traditional art form that is the heart and soul of most African communities. A skill that marks the beginning of new life, events and celebrations in some tribes in Africa. African drums have been passed through generation to generation making it one of the most ancient instruments played today. The rhythmic beats signify a physical, emotional and spiritual connection to the roots of African culture. The classes take place at Brixton House, 385 Coldharbour Lane, SW9 8GL at 5.30pm. To book a space, email: hello@brixtonhouse.co.uk. Tickets are £5 for under 16s
Birmingham 2nd June 2022
City of Empire to City of Diversity: A Visual Journey explores how the city of Birmingham has evolved through the decades in an exhibition at The library of Birmingham. There are personal stories of migration and settlement by those who came to Birmingham and put down roots in the city. The exhibition is free and no booking is required.
Liverpool 4th June - 5th June 2022
Meet me at the River is an exhibition at the National Slavery Museum in Liverpool which brings art to the Martin Luther King building. Migrant Artists Mutual Aid (MaMa) is a cross national network of women, mothers, migrants, artists, academics and activists who advocate for justice in the migration system. The MaMa have begun a series of pop up displays that will also include spoken word, music and performance poetry.
London 4th June 2022
Rewrite.Reclaim: Celebrating a rich and inspiring history of melanated people Families will have the opportunity to share the stories, culture and journey of some historical figures known and unknown. There are a series of workshops to select from which will enhance their arts and crafts appreciation and performance skills. The day is filled with African dancing, open mic, amulet making and many more fun experiences.
London June 4th - 5th 2022
Black culture Market is a showcase of beautiful Black businesses celebrating African and Caribbean culture. Though this event may not seem as exhilarating as a festival or show, it opens a gateway to unique prints, cards, jewelry, books and so much more where our children can find a product that looks like it was made for them. It is a shopping experience that is diverse as well as uplifting. Located in Brixton, the market is free to enter.
Leeds - June 4th 2022
Once a month, Founder Joe Williams of The Leeds Black History Walk and Heritage Corner delivers an informative perspective and unheard local narratives with African connections, going back to Roman Yorkshire.
