February is Black History Month
Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the impact and contributions made to history, art, culture, society, literature and beyond by Black Americans and the Milwaukee community makes it easy to celebrate Black History Month with kids.
Here are some Black History Month events and activities going on this month in Milwaukee you can enjoy with your kids.
1: BLACK HISTORY MONTH AT THE MILWAUKEE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Books will always be one of the best learning tools out there and the Milwaukee Public Library system has no shortage of books available for kids to learn about Black History. Head to your local branch and you’re likely to find a display with books at the ready, but feel free to ask your favorite librarian for recommendations!
This year, the Milwaukee Public Library is hosting a Black History Month Challenge where kids can join in celebrating Black History and uplifting Black voices by completing a variety of activities, tracking their progress, and returning the form to any MPL location. Activities include:
- Reading a book about Black History
- Reading a book by a Black author or illustrator
- Watching a movie or documentary on a Black History change-maker or unsung hero
- Listen to an audiobook by a Black author or about Black History
- and more!
Learn more about the challenge and check out the cool prizes up for grabs!
2: EXPLORE & SUPPORT BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES
Milwaukee is blessed to have a ton of local Black-owned businesses kids and adults alike will love and February is the perfect time to find a new favorite! MKE Black is the area’s go-to resource for Black-owned businesses of all sorts, so start exploring and enjoying! Try a new restaurant, grab some tasty treats, get manicures, or just go shopping. There’s something for everyone in Milwaukee.
3: VISIT THE WISCONSIN BLACK HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Black History Month: Kids Tour Day
February 14, 2026 @ 11 am – 1 pm
Join the Wisconsin Black Historical Society for a day that caters to the kiddos featuring an African dance workshop, Art project and a storytelling/tour session.
The mission of the Wisconsin Black Historical Society/Museum is to document and preserve the historical heritage of African descent in Wisconsin. The Museum exhibits, collects and disseminates materials depicting this heritage. Serving as a resource center for all people interested in Wisconsin’s rich African American heritage, the Museum’s purpose is to encourage and promote family community and cultural activities.
4: STARS, STORIES, & RHYTHEMS OF AFRICA PLANETARIUM
Manfred Olson Planetarium
1900 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee
Celebrate Black History Month under the stars! Join us for a night of poetry and stargazing featuring Shelly Conley, Milwaukee’s 2025-26 Poet Laureate.
Shelly Conley is a writer, performer, and facilitator whose work inspires healing and empowerment. She is the author of REWIND – A Cathartic Autobiography and co-author of Freeing – A Collection of Poems. Shelly also serves as Program Director of My Sista’s KeepHer, where she amplifies youth voices through poetry and positive self-expression.
The program will include an indoor stargazing session of the night sky followed by the opportunity to ask questions. This event is open to the public. Not recommended for children under 4. No advance registration is required.
