Fresno Celebrates Black History Month with Mardi Gras, Exhibits, and More

From parades to film screenings, Fresno is hosting a variety of events to commemorate Black history and culture.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Fresno is gearing up for a packed schedule of events in celebration of Black History Month, including a Mardi Gras parade in the Tower District, art exhibits at Fresno State, documentary screenings, and community meetings focused on voter mobilization and Know Your Rights education.

Why it matters

These events highlight Fresno's diverse cultural offerings and the city's commitment to celebrating the contributions of the Black community. They also provide opportunities for residents to engage with important social and political issues through educational programming and community organizing efforts.

The details

The Tower District Mardi Gras Parade on February 15th will feature participation from local activist group Fresno Resistance and indigenous dancers. A community meeting on February 17th at the Big Red Church will include a 'Know Your Rights' presentation regarding ICE activity. Fresno State is hosting several events, including an exhibit on 100 years of Black history commemorations, film screenings, and a forum on leadership and education.

  • The Tower District Mardi Gras Parade is set for Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 1 p.m.
  • The community meeting and 'whistle party' will take place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 from 7:30 to 9 p.m.
  • The Fresno State exhibit 'A Century of Black History Commemorations' will run through February 27, 2026, with the gallery open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • The documentary screening of 'The Power of Nonviolence' will take place on February 17, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.
  • The screening of 'Kipkemboi (The Wall Street Boy)' is scheduled for February 20, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.

The players

Fresno Resistance

A local activist group that will participate in the Tower District Mardi Gras Parade.

Grupo Tonalkalko – Danza Conchera Chichimeca

Indigenous dancers who will join the Tower District Mardi Gras Parade.

Fresno State School of Art, Design and Art History

The department hosting the 'A Century of Black History Commemorations' exhibit on the Fresno State campus.

Rev. James Lawson Jr.

The subject of the documentary 'The Power of Nonviolence', which explores his philosophy of nonviolence and its modern-day applications.

Melissa R. Michelson and Sarah V. Hayes

The authors who will present 'Party at the Ballot Box: Mobilizing Black Women Voters' at Fresno State.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Fresno's Black History Month programming showcases the city's vibrant cultural diversity and commitment to community engagement, providing residents with educational opportunities and platforms for civic participation.