Celebrate Black History Month in Chicago at museums & with tours led by historian Dilla

There is no shortage of ways to celebrate Black voices and culture during Black History Month this February. Chicagoans can find plenty to do, ranging from exhibits at museums and local tours to musical performances. 

Black History Month tours with Chicago Historian Dilla

Discover Chicago’s Black history with the city’s prominent historian Dilla and DuSable Museum of African American History on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. According to the event listing, Black History Month originated in the Windy City 100 years ago. During the tours, guests will be able to see the site where the historic event first took place, and also learn about the history of jazz, gospel, and civil rights icons.

Field Museum

The Field Museum will feature several events to celebrate Black History Month. On Tuesday, Feb. 3, the museum will host its “Sole to Soul: Celebrating 100 Years of Excellence” event to honor African Americans who have made profound contributions to the community. In a more unique twist, the event will pay homage to Chicago’s footwear culture. 

When visiting the museum, visitors can take part in the Black History Month Scavenger Hunt. Download the PDF on the Field Museum’s website.

Additionally, the museum will put on:

• Wednesday, Feb. 11 — Science is Sweet: Chemistry of Sweets to honor the legacy of George Washington Carver

• Wednesdays, Feb. 18 and Feb. 25 —PlayLab Play Dates with storytelling sessions   

• Tuesday, Feb. 24 — Science of the Soil: Cultivating Healing, Community, and Sustainability to explore the history of botany within Black communities 

Read more on Chicago Star

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• Dive into wonder at Hologram Zoo Illinois, the Midwest’s first immersive holographic zoo

• Rediscover your sense of wonder at one of these great magic shows across Chicago

• BEDS Plus fights homelessness with 14th annual Soup & Bread Fundraiser

Uniting Voices Chicago 

Formerly known as the Chicago Children’s Choir, Uniting Voices Chicago will put on Black History Month Concert Series on Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 11 a.m. at Auditorium Theatre. The concert will honor Africana music with the theme of “Voices of Àṣẹ: Afrofuturism II.” 

Chicago History Museum

Commemorative Day for Black History Month will take place at Chicago History Museum on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. According to the museum’s website, the event will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence while uplifting the voices of African Americans who have played an important role in forming the nation.