In Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Black history is deeply woven into the city’s neighborhoods, arts scene, activism, museums, and Black-owned businesses. Throughout February, residents and visitors can discover meaningful things to do in Harrisburg, including cultural events, historic landmarks, exhibits, and community celebrations that highlight Black heritage and creativity.
In addition to celebrating these successes, Black History Month also offers an opportunity to learn, reflect, and deepen our understanding of this important history. Below are five ways to explore and celebrate the contributions of African Americans in Harrisburg and beyond.
1. Attend Events
Black Newsbeat with Dr. Kimeka Campbell (Feb 6)
Dr. Kimeka Campbell explores the life and community of Harrisburg and its expressions in the Black and brown community at Open Stage at 7 pm. More Information
Ephraim Slaughter: Freedom’s Witness (Feb 14 - 22)
A one-act play tracing the life of a formerly enslaved man who became a Union Army veteran and community leader. For tickets and more information, click here.
Black History Month at the Civic Club (Feb 20)
Celebrate Black History Month with an evening of art, poetry, and storytelling exploring connections between the Haitian Revolution and the Civil Rights Movement—plus Haitian cuisine from Marie’s Kitchen Haitian Cuisine. This event is from 6-8pm and free to the public.
Blacc Marketplace (Feb 20 & 21)
A two-day marketplace celebrating and supporting local Black-owned small businesses.
Tracing the History of Black History Month in Harrisburg (Feb 23)
A short program highlighting Harrisburg’s role in the origins of Black History Month and key moments in local Black history, presented by the Harrisburg Historic Association. Free to attend.
Forgotten Patriot: The Story of Ned Hector (Feb 22)
A living history presentation bringing the story of Black Revolutionary War hero Ned Hector to life at the Historic John Harris - Simon Cameron Mansion.
Black History Month Reception (Feb 26)
A networking reception focused on advancing the Black working families agenda in Pennsylvania. Winter cocktail attire. RSVP required.
To see what else is happening in Harrisburg, visit our calendar of events.
2. Visit Historic Monuments, Museums and Exhibits
A Gathering at the Crossroads: For Such a Time as This
Visit the First African American Monument on PA State Capitol Grounds, “A Gathering at the Crossroads: For Such a Time as This,” which was officially completed in 2020. The site of the monument is significant, located where Harrisburg’s “Old Eighth Ward” was, until the early 20th Century, a thriving multicultural neighborhood.
The monument commemorates two anniversaries of two major milestones in the quest for equal rights in America: The 150th anniversary of the 15th Amendment (1870) to the US Constitution granting Black men the right to vote (February 3); and 100th anniversary of 19th Amendment (1920) which granted voting rights to women (August 26).
For more information regarding this project, visit digitalharrisburg.com/commonwealth/
Civil War Museum
The National Civil War Museum is one of the largest museums in the world dedicated solely to the American Civil War. The Museum seeks to tell the whole story of this most troubled chapter in American history, while focusing on the issues, the people and the lives that were affected. The causes and ramifications of this conflict that divided a Nation are investigated; both Northern and Southern viewpoints are presented; and military as well as civilian perspectives are highlighted.
Be sure to visit the temporary exhibit, Pursuit of Freedom: The Abolition of Slavery. It displays pieces of history that cover the early attempts to abolish slavery in the United States.
The museum is open Monday to Saturday, 10am - 5pm and Sundays 12pm - 5pm. The museum also offers several programs throughout the year.
Special Event: On Saturday, February 14, 2026, the Museum will celebrate its 25th Anniversary Community Free Day with free admission for all visitors from 10:00am – 4:00pm. Guests can enjoy special presentations, including a compelling talk by Rachel Williams and a live history appearance by James Hayney as President Abraham Lincoln, along with family-friendly activities and anniversary-themed programming throughout the day.
Learn more at nationalcivilwarmuseum.org/
“Trailblazers” Exhibit at the Pennsylvania Capitol Complex
Pennsylvania’s history is full of remarkable figures who not only helped to shape the future of the Commonwealth but also the future of the nation. Discover some of these inspiring stories when you browse the "Trailblazers: Notable African Americans in Pennsylvania History" exhibit located in the East Wing Rotunda at the Pennsylvania State Capitol. The exhibit includes 23 portraits in total, with eight rotating into the featured public display each year. Plan your visit to the Capitol here.
3. Support Black Businesses
Harrisburg is a city that celebrates its cultural diversity, and the Black-Owned businesses within it are an important part of that. From restaurants and bars to arts and crafts, these businesses offer something for everyone in Harrisburg. This month and every month let’s support these amazing Black-Owned businesses in Harrisburg and discover how they contribute to the city's vibrant culture.
Click here for a list of some Black-owned businesses in the the City of Harrisburg.
4. Explore Public Art: Black Artists in Harrisburg
Raffia Mural – Bryan “King Prolific” Hickman
A steering committee of Black Harrisburg community leaders guided the creation of Raffia, a mural celebrating Black culture and community. Local artist Bryan “King Prolific” Hickman, who previously apprenticed with Sprocket Mural Works on the Mulberry Street bridge murals, describes the piece as “Afro-inspired.” The mural depicts a Black woman and incorporates themes of African American strength, youth empowerment, and the importance of education. Learn more about "Raffia" here.
📍928 James Street, Harrisburg, PA
Photo: Landon Wise Photography
Maya Angelou Butterfly Mural – Sharnee Burnett
Created in the summer of 2025 by Harrisburg-born artist Sharnee Burnett, this vibrant mural was inspired by a quote from American poet and activist Maya Angelou: “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” Surrounded by monarch butterflies against a bright yellow backdrop, Angelou’s portrait symbolizes growth, transformation, and perseverance. For Burnett, the butterflies hold personal meaning and represent encouragement, legacy, and hope for future generations. The mural was the artist’s largest project to date and reflects both creative ambition and strong community support. Learn more about "The Journey" here.
📍 42 Hanover Rd, Harrisburg, PA
2nd Street Flower Planters – Dion Renee & Gloria Jean Martin
As part of the City of Harrisburg’s 2025 Artsfest “Paint the Planter” contest, local artists Dion Renee and Gloria Jean Martin brought color and creativity to the 2nd Street flower planters. Their designs add vibrant, community-driven public art to the downtown streetscape, offering visitors another way to experience local Black artistry while exploring the city.
📍2nd Street, Downtown, Harrisburg, PA
5. Contribute to Black Organizations and Charities
There are many ways to support your community, including donating money to a charity, movement or group. These monetary contributions can help fund programs and pay for legal costs and salaries that keep an organization afloat.
Here are some non-profit organizations advancing Black rights and equal justice:
