Orlando Celebrates 100 Years of Black History Commemorations

New exhibition at City Hall showcases work from over two dozen local artists.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The City of Orlando has opened a special exhibition at the Terrace Gallery in City Hall to commemorate the 100th anniversary of national Black History Month observances. Titled "100 Years of Black History Commemorations", the exhibition features work from over two dozen local artists and reflects how the study and celebration of Black history has reshaped education, strengthened identity, and elevated stories of creativity, resilience, and achievement.

Why it matters

This centennial exhibition aligns with a broader national moment as the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary of independence, positioning Black history as an essential and ongoing part of the American narrative. The exhibition aims to honor the legacy of historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, who established Negro History Week in 1926 which later evolved into Black History Month.

The details

The 2026 Black History Month Exhibition at the Terrace Gallery in Orlando's City Hall features work from over 25 local artists including Angie Vazquez, Calvin Bell, Darnesha Moore, Ernest Jones, Florida Bravo, John A. Lewis, Joy Hayes, Kenneth Elvin Washington, Martha Sanders, Richlin Burnett-Ryan, Ridge Bonnick, Sharard X, Stacy Barter, Toya Flewellyn, Victor V. Wilson, and Xavier Moss. The exhibition is open to the public until April 5, 2026.

  • The City of Orlando has opened its 2026 Black History Month Exhibition.
  • The exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of national Black history observances.
  • Negro History Week was established by historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1926.

The players

Carter G. Woodson

An American historian, author, journalist and the founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, who established Negro History Week in 1926 which later evolved into Black History Month.

Association for the Study of African American Life and History

An organization founded by Carter G. Woodson in 1915 with the mission of promoting the study of African American history and culture.

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The takeaway

This exhibition commemorating 100 years of Black History Month observances in the U.S. highlights the enduring importance of celebrating and preserving Black history, which has become an essential part of the American narrative as the country approaches its 250th anniversary of independence.