What's going on near you to celebrate Black History Month
October is Black History Month, and there are lots of opportunities to celebrate Black history, culture and communities in East London. Local organisations are bringing people together through exhibitions, walks, workshops, markets and other activities. Lots of events are free, making it a great opportunity to discover something new in your local area.
Discover Black history in the East End
Communities of Liberation Walk: Footprints through the East End
Saturday 3 October - 11am to 1pm
Join a free history walk from Tower Hill to St George-in-the-East. The walk explores the stories of people of African heritage who lived in London's historic riverside communities. Book your free place, here.
Support local Black businesses
Black Independents Marketplace
Tuesday 13 October - 11am to 4pm
Tower Hamlets Local History Library & Archives
Discover local independent Afro-Caribbean traders selling clothing, art, hair and skincare products, wellbeing items and more. You don't need to book. Just turn up and enjoy.
Afro Hair Fayre
24 October, 12pm - 2pm and 2pm - 5pm
2 Cotall St, Poplar, E14 6TL
The Afro Hair Fayre provides a welcoming space to explore Afro and textured hair care, identity and self-expression. The day includes a braiding workshop, practical hair care advice, haircuts and hairstyling support. Tickets are £5. Get yours, here.
Explore stories of liberation
Workshop with Dr Peggy Brunache
Saturday 17 October - 2pm to 4pm
Dr Peggy Brunache from the University of Glasgow will lead a workshop exploring historical records used in the Communities of Liberation exhibition. Book your free place, here.
Soul Cinema
25 October, 3pm - 5pm
2 Cotall St, Poplar, E14 6TL
Bring the family along for a screening of Disney Pixar's Soul. This family-friendly event explores passion, purpose and discovering what makes each of us unique. Tickets are £3. Get your tickets, here.
Visit a local exhibition
Solidarity on the Streets
2 to 31 October
Four Corners, Roman Road, Bethnal Green
This exhibition explores a century of people in the East End taking action against racism, fascism and exclusion. It brings together photography, artwork, archive film and documents celebrating the area's long history of different communities standing together.
There's lots more to discover
Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate Black history and culture, learn more about the people and stories that have shaped our communities, and get involved locally.
Tower Hamlets Council has a Black History Month programme bringing together arts, culture and heritage activities for local communities. Please check event details before travelling, as dates, availability and booking requirements may change.
See what's happening during Black History Month in Tower Hamlets, here.
Gateway isn't organising these events, so please contact the event organisers directly if you have questions about accessibility, booking or attending.
