Celebrate Black History in Arlington All Year Long

Arlington’s African American history is one of the most layered and significant in the entire commonwealth, and exploring it is a year-round endeavor rather than a single February event. The story begins at Freedman’s Village — established in 1863 on the confiscated Arlington estate (now Arlington National Cemetery) as a refuge for emancipated slaves — and continues through the courage of the Thomas family and others who integrated Arlington’s public schools in the 1950s, the lunch counter sit-ins at the Cherrydale People’s Drug Store in 1960, and the vibrant historically Black neighborhoods of Hall’s Hill, Green Valley, and Nauck that remain vital community anchors today. The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington on Columbia Pike — open Thursdays and Saturdays with free admission — is the essential starting point, with a remarkable collection and deeply personal guided tours from founder Scott Taylor that bring this history to life.

Each February, Arlington County produces an extensive Black History Month programming calendar anchored by the Arlington Public Library, including author talks, film screenings, crafts for children, and documentary presentations. The annual Green Valley Family Festival at Charles Drew Community Center, the Virginia Black History Month Association Gala at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel, and special events at Signature Theatre and George Mason University’s Arlington campus add breadth to the celebration. Arlington’s public art trail includes several murals and installations specifically honoring Black community members and history — find the full guide at Stay Arlington.