As people across Buncombe County, North Carolina, and the United States of America celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence this year, the City of Asheville welcomes the opportunity to reflect on our community’s past, honor contributions of all Americans, and look ahead to creating a future of abundance for the next generation. In February, all community members are invited to events highlighting Black heritage, contributions, and community as Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) hosts events to celebrate America’s Semiquincentennial and Black History Month.
“Throughout the year, the City of Asheville and its partners share unique stories, rich cultural events, and opportunities to connect with neighbors that make our city a special place to call home,” according to APR Director D. Tyrell McGirt. “As we commemorate 250 years of our nation’s history, our team is proud to center the Black stories and voices that have shaped our world and our city. These journeys of hope and significant contributions are integral to the United States’ shared culture and history – and highlighting them creates deeper personal conversations that inspire closer movement to our American promise that all are created equal.”
Black History Month 2026 Highlights
All events are free, but advance registration is recommended as space may be limited.
February 11, 6:30-8:30pm – Black History Month Through the Eyes of Art Opening Reception at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center
Take a thought-provoking journey through Black history as interpreted by local artists and examine how they acknowledge and celebrate the past. Reception features light bites with artwork on display during regular center hours through Feb. 28. To showcase your art, submit your info online, email jjohnston@ashevillenc.gov, or call (828) 552-1707.
February 14, 1-4pm – Shades of Red: Our Black History is Love at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center
Celebrate the rich history and culture of the Shiloh community as friends, and neighbors showcase deep roots and the last legacy of the neighborhood by honoring those past generations, sharing stories, and reflecting with one another. Please call (828) 274-7739 for more info.
February 19, 6-8pm – Soul Food Supper at Stephens-Lee Community Center
In the late 19th century, the church became a gathering place for Black communities and impacted the development of what’s now considered soul food. Fried chicken and fish, sweet potato pie, sweet tea, black-eyed peas, cornbread, and more were served during Emancipation celebrations and church gatherings. Enjoy down-home cooking passed down through generations at this annual dinner sponsored by APR, Stephens-Lee Alumni Association, and East End/Valley Street Neighborhood Association. Please call (828) 271-6089 for more info.
February 20, 2:30-5pm – Dr. George Washington Carver Edible Park Work & Learn Day at Stephens-Lee Community Center
Did you know one of the nation’s oldest community food forests is located in Asheville? With over 40 varieties of fruit and nut trees, a butterfly habitat, and annual vegetable garden, the space is named for inventor and scientist Dr. George Washington Carver whose agricultural ingenuity is key to the theme of American ingenuity. Please call (828) 271-6089 for more info.
February 20, 6-8pm – Montford Melodies & Legacy Celebration at Tempie Avery Montford Community Center
Journey through music and memory with a vibrant tribute to artists, trailblazers, and stories that helped shape music at an entertaining dinner experience paired with a short film of famous concerts featuring artists from James Brown at the Apollo Theater to Beyoncé’s I Am… tour. Please call (828) 271-6087 for more info.
February 21, 6-8pm – Burton Street History at Burton Street Community Center
Join for an exciting discussion about the legacy of the Burton Street neighborhood and its founder, Edward W. Pearson. Light refreshments provided. Please call (828) 785-3970 for more info.
Check Out All APR Programs
Visit ashevillenc.go/apr-guide or stop by an APR community center for the full APR program guide chock full of low- and no-cost opportunities! Programs fill up fast and many require advance registration, so it’s worth spending some time planning which activities and events to attend. Use these resources to discover additional opportunities:
- APR’s free program guide is available at community centers and online at ashevillenc.gov/apr-guide
- Search programs online, available in 249 languages via Google Translate’s Website Translator
- Follow APR on Facebook and Instagram
- Visit parks, greenways, playgrounds, and unique spaces throughout Asheville