Bloomington hosting 2026 Black History Month events, Kick-Off Celebration

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (WISH) — Bloomington, Indiana, officials are inviting residents and visitors to take part in the city’s 2026 Black History Month events.

The festivities will begin with a Kick-Off Celebration on Saturday, Feb. 7 at City Hall, located at 401 N. Morton Street. Doors open at 3:30 p.m., with the program beginning at 4 p.m. in Council Chambers. The event is free and open to the public.

The 2026 Black History Month theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” recognizes the history and contributions that have shaped local and national culture, and highlights opportunities for the community to connect through music, performance, and youth expression.

The Kick-Off Celebration will feature a performing arts showcase highlighting local students, artists, and performers. The program, “Showcasing the Performing Arts,” will be emceed by Nia I’man Smith, doctoral candidate in ethnomusicology and host of Sonic Blackness on WFHB.

Featured performers include:

• Indiana University African American Choral Ensemble.
• Fairview Elementary School Show Choir and Drummers.
• Bloomington Montessori School Chorus.
• Jada Chivers, poet.
• Black, ...