Atlanta, Georgia played a key role during the civil rights movement. As a result, it has developed a rich history and is the home of several historic sites, landmarks and museums significant to the African-American community. Numerous events and activities highlighting African-American history and culture are held in the city of Atlanta during Black History Month. Here are a few you don’t want to miss:

1. Black History Month Parade
The Black History Month Parade is referred to as “the largest celebration of African-American History Month in America.” Held each year in downtown Atlanta, the parade starts at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site (Auburn Ave.) and ends at Woodruff Park. The parade includes marching bands and various entertainers. There is also a festival after the parade, which features African-American history, music artists, spoken word, speakers, and additional attractions.

2. Kick Off Black History Month
An educational experience for children that teaches them more about African-American history and how African-Americans helped to build and shape America. This event was held at the Dogwood Branch Library in Atlanta.

3. Struggles and Strides
A family event that features performances, guest lectures, and other activities, with a focus on the personal struggles and freedom of African-Americans over the years. “Struggles and Strides” was hosted by the Atlanta History Center.

4. Emerging Voices Family Storytelling: Black History and Folktales
A celebration of the history and culture of African-Americans through the power of storytelling. “Black History and Folktales” features some of the best storytellers in Atlanta, who share their stories of Black History and Folktales with an audience of all ages. This event was held at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center.

5. Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site
Black History Month is a great time to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site. This site includes Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birth Home, the King Center, Freedom Hall, as well as other historically significant attractions. The King Center was established in 1968 by Dr. King’s wife, Mrs. Coretta Scott King, to preserve the legacy of her husband. The King Center is also the final resting place of Dr. King. You can visit the Birth Home (tours available 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily), the King Center, Visitor Center, Freedom Hall, and the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily) for a rich educational experience in African-American history and culture.

Didn’t go to any of these during February – Black History Month? Never fear, the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site is open throughout the year. I highly recommend that you visit this site to experience all it has to offer. For more information, please visit https://www.nps.gov/malu/index.htm.