New York Celebrates Black History Month with Free Events

From the Louis Armstrong House Museum to local libraries and parks, the city offers a range of free programming throughout February.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 1:55pm

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New York City is celebrating Black History Month with a variety of free events and activities across the five boroughs. The festivities kicked off with a free admission day at the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens, and will continue with programs at public libraries, parks, and other venues throughout the month.

Why it matters

These free events provide an opportunity for all New Yorkers to learn about and celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the city's history and culture. By making these programs accessible, the city aims to ensure Black history is celebrated and shared widely.

The details

The free day at the Louis Armstrong House Museum was announced by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who said the move will "ensure Black history is accessible to all New Yorkers." Other free events include activities at the Queens Public Library, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in Harlem, the Allerton Library in the Bronx, NYC Parks, and a Black History Month run hosted by New York Road Runners.

  • The free admission day at the Louis Armstrong House Museum took place on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
  • Events are scheduled throughout the month of February 2026.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City.

Louis Armstrong House Museum

A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong, located in the Corona neighborhood of Queens.

Queens Public Library

The public library system serving the borough of Queens in New York City.

Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

A research library in Harlem that is a division of the New York Public Library, focused on collecting materials related to the African diaspora.

Allerton Library

A branch of the New York Public Library system located in the Bronx.

NYC Parks

The department of the New York City government responsible for maintaining the city's parks and recreational facilities.

New York Road Runners

A non-profit organization that organizes numerous running events in New York City, including the iconic New York City Marathon.

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What they’re saying

“As we begin Black History Month, I'm inspired by the museum's commitment to opening its doors wide and inviting every New Yorker to experience the enduring achievements of a great jazz pioneer, American icon, and long-time New Yorker.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

The takeaway

These free Black History Month events demonstrate New York City's commitment to making the city's rich African American history and culture accessible to all residents, regardless of their means. By offering programming at museums, libraries, parks, and other public spaces, the city is ensuring that the contributions of Black New Yorkers are celebrated and shared widely.