Gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for African and African American culture and history through dedicated programs that celebrate Black authors, storytellers and musicians.
Browse our reading list for a variety of titles featuring Black authors and characters for adults, teens and children, including fiction, nonfiction, picture books and more.
Minnesota Black Authors Expo ***canceled***
Discover a world of captivating stories, meet talented authors, and celebrate the rich literary heritage of Black writers. Enjoy special performances and opportunities to meet authors and get your books signed. All ages.
Galaxie
Saturday, Feb. 8, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Music History: Prince
Join us to learn about the impact of this influential songwriter, how he shifted the sound of American rock and pop, and lasting changes he brought to the American music scene. Presented by MacPhail Center for Music. For adults.
Heritage
Tuesday, Feb. 11, 6–7 p.m.
History of Black American Jazz featuring John Penny
Explore how the human conditions that shaped Black American history also shaped its music. Hear a discussion of Black American Jazz in a historical context and enjoy a live performance by John Penny as he incorporates musical elements from Africa, Europe and South America. For adults.
Robert Trail
Thursday, Feb. 13, 6–7 p.m.
Heart and Soul Drum Academy
Enjoy the music of the talented youth performers from Heart & Soul Drum Academy. The arts organization from St. Paul helps kids increase focus, discipline and teamwork skills while celebrating African culture through drumming and dance. Learn about the Djembe drum and African dance. For ages 4 and older with their caregivers.
Wentworth
Saturday, Feb. 15, 1–1:45 p.m.
Black Storytellers Alliance
Hear from a master storyteller in this interactive and lively storytelling experience. Listen to stories, folktales and myths that celebrate the African American experience. For ages 2 and older with their caregivers.
Pleasant Hill
Tuesday, Feb. 18, 10–10:30 a.m.
Kashimana Ahua: Love from the Sun
Enjoy feel-good acoustic pop and soul-stirring sunshine vibes in this performance of 10 songs from a variety of styles from pop to soul to folk and more. For adults.
BurnhavenThursday, Feb. 20, 10–11 a.m.