Black History Month Events to Attend in Toronto (2025)

February is a time to honour the past, celebrate the present, and support the future of Black communities. Black History Month offers a chance to experience powerful stories, art, music, and discussions that highlight Black culture and history. From film screenings to live performances, the city has plenty happening this year. Whether you’re looking for thought-provoking talks or a lively festival, there’s something for everyone. Check out these events and take part in a month of reflection, learning, and celebration.

Black History Month Events in Toronto (2025) | Celebrate Culture & Community

Black History Month Art and Culture Celebration (February 1)

This free event at Hart House brings together local artists, storytellers, and performers to honour Black Canadian contributions to arts and culture. Expect live performances, art exhibitions, and vendor booths showcasing Black-owned businesses. It’s an immersive way to kick off Black History Month.

• Location: Hart House, University of Toronto
• Website: https://harthouse.ca
• Admission: FREE

Black History Month Tribute Shows (February 1, 8, 15 & 22)

The Pilot Tavern’s annual tribute to Black jazz musicians returns for its third year. Alongside live jazz performances, local historians like Edward Brown and George Elliott Clarke will discuss the impact of Black artists in shaping jazz music. The performances span multiple jazz styles, from Afro-Cuban to soul, funk, and fusion.

• Location: The Pilot Tavern
• Website: https://www.thepilot.ca/events
• Admission: Reserve here.

KUUMBA30 (February 1 to 28)

Toronto’s largest Black Futures Month festival returns for its 30th year, featuring music, dance, workshops, and visual arts. This year’s lineup includes a breakdance competition, a Masterclass series with Esie Mensah, Lua Shayenne, and Syreeta Hector, and screenings of films like A Mother Apart and Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story.

• Location: Harbourfront Centre
• Website: https://harbourfrontcentre.com/series/kuumba

The Trending Table

This pop-up market supports Black-owned and BIPOC-owned businesses. Shoppers can browse handmade crafts, fashion, and specialty goods, while vendors can connect with the community and showcase their work. It’s an ideal place to support Black entrepreneurship.

• Date & Location: February 7 to 9, 2025 (Scarborough Town Centre)
• Date & Location: February 21 to 23, 2025 (Square One Shopping Centre)
• Admission: Free

Toronto Black Film Festival (February 12 to 17)

The Toronto Black Film Festival (TBFF) showcases stories from the African, Caribbean, and Black Canadian communities. This year’s lineup includes independent films, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. The festival kicks off with Fight Like A Girl, starring Ama Qamata as a Congolese woman who escapes forced labor to become a boxer.

• Location: Multiple venues 
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.torontoblackfilm.com

Underground Comedy Railroad (February 14)

Now in its 13th year, Canada’s first and only all-Black comedy tour returns with a fresh lineup of comedians, including Rodney Ramsey, Daniel Woodrow, and Tamara Shevon. This one-night show in Toronto offers a night of laughter while highlighting diverse voices in Canadian comedy.

• Website: https://comedyrailroad.com

Black Grapes: A Celebration of Black Winemakers (February 20)

Curated by sommelier Beverly Crandon, Black Grapes is a wine-tasting event spotlighting Black winemakers from Canada, the U.S., South Africa, and beyond. Pair fine wines with gourmet snacks while learning about the contributions of Black professionals in the wine industry.

• Location: Stackt Market
• Admission: Tickets can be purchased here for $37.50.

Black History Month Showcase (February 21)

As part of the Canadian Cyphers: Elements of Toronto Hip-Hop exhibit, this free concert features performances by hip-hop pioneers Dream Warriors, DJ Carl Allen, and a surprise guest. The exhibit explores the history of hip-hop in Canada, particularly Toronto’s influence on the genre.

• Location: City of Toronto Archives
• Admission: Free

Black Diamond Ball (February 22)

For a night of glamour, networking, and celebration, the Black Diamond Ball is the city’s premier Black-tie event. Now in its 10th year, this gala honours Black excellence with inspiring speeches, fine dining, and live performances.

• Location: Fairmont Royal York Hotel
• Admission: Get your tickets here.

Exceptional Music by Black Composers (February 28)

The Untitled Ensemble presents an evening of classical music featuring works by Florence Price, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, and Dorothy Rudd Moore. This concert showcases the impact of Black composers on Western classical music.

More…

• https://www.destinationtoronto.com/leisure-blog/post/black-history-month-events-toronto
• https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/news/2025/01/the-government-of-canada-announces-the-theme-for-black-history-month-2025.html