Things to Do

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Engage with us in February with Black History Month programming, videos, and more.

Feel the Heritage Festival

kids at feel the heritage festival Arlington's 31st annual Feel the Heritage Festival will be held on Sat., Feb. 22, 2025 from noon-5 p.m. at Charles Drew Community Center. The festival welcomes hundreds each year to learn about the Arlington’s historically African-American neighborhoods while enjoying live entertainment, delicious food and dozens of vendors. Learn more.

 

Arlington Public Library Events

Family Art Night: Black History Month
 Children of all ages and their adults are invited to join the Arlington Public Library on Monday, Feb. 3, to experiment, problem-solve, and use their creativity by making a Alma Thomas-inspired suncatcher. Learn more.

The Black History of Chesapeake Bay Aquaculture
 Join Imani Black, founder of Minorities in Aquaculture, on Saturday, Feb. 15, to learn about the rich history of Chesapeake Bay aquaculture, what it looks like today and could look like in the future. Learn more and register here.

Mary McLeod Bethune: A History
Join the Arlington Public Library on Thursday, Feb. 27, for a conversation with Dr. Noliwe Rooks as she discusses, "A Passionate Mind in Relentless Pursuit: The Vision of Mary McLeod Bethune". Dr. Rooks will discuss the life and legacy of one of America’s towering educators, a woman who dared to center the progress of Black women and girls in the larger struggle for political and social liberation. Learn more and register here.

Kids Club
 Feb. 6 Westover Library - Black Inventors
Feb. 19 Central Library - Black History Month

Honoring Black Artists

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Get creative while learning more about Black Americans' contributions to art by watching these 'how to' videos from Parks and Recreation's Community Arts team:

More Black History Month Events in February

  • Sam Sandiego1.png Black History Mystery: For the month of February, follow along with "Sam Sandiego", a fun-loving spy who wants to help you discover the hidden, historic gems in Arlington. Learn more about the interactive Black History scavenger hunt.
  • Family Art Lab at Home -- Art To Go Boxes: Register for your Alma Thomas Box today and paint along to create your own artwork inspired by her Apollo 12 Splash Down image! Boxes will be available for pick up Feb.10-14.
  • Arlington's Halls Hill: Arlington’s Halls Hill was one of the first historically Black neighborhoods in Arlington, dating back to 1881. The neighborhood had its own school, firehouse, and businesses. Saundra Green, a lifelong resident, will recap the history of this neighborhood and discuss her experiences living there on Feb. 27. 55+ Membership Required. Learn more.
  • Rec @ Home Activities for Kids: The Department of Parks and Recreation's Youth, Teen & Family Services staff curated fun activities to do at home with accompanying videos. Activities include crafts, snacks, story time and more.
  • Black Heritage Museum of Arlington: Visit BHMA and learn about Arlington’s fascinating local Black and African American history.
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