Black Cultural Heritage – Visit Seattle

January
Martin Luther King Jr. Day

While multiple venues across the city put on workshops, rallies, and marches honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his fight for racial equality during the Civil Rights Movement, the largest event is the annual march and rally held at Garfield High School.

February
Black History Month Events

Like with MLK Day, Seattle comes alive with a whole host of events for Black History Month. From film festivals and dance performances to lectures, museum exhibits, markets, and food festivals.

February
The Soul of Seattle

Taste the best of the city’s African and African American food scene at The Soul of Seattle. This event brings together incredible Black chefs, winemakers, and artists, with proceeds going to nonprofits dedicated to helping local BIPOC youth.

April
Seattle Black Film Festival

This annual event showcases films from independent Black filmmakers and works about the Black experience. The festival also features panel discussions, screenplay readings, and workshops.

June
Juneteenth

The city’s largest Juneteenth event, the Juneteenth Festival at Jimi Hendrix Park, brings together Black vendors, musicians, and community leaders for a celebration that’s fun for the whole family.

June
Festival Sundiata Presents Black Arts Fest

Named in honor of a legendary African king, Festival Sundiata features African and African American cultural traditions. Spend the day listening to live R&B, soul, and Afrobeats music; admiring Black-inspired drawings and paintings; and shopping at the marketplace for locally made crafts and international imports.

August
Umoja Fest

Part of Seattle’s summer-long Seafair celebration, Umoja Fest brings the best of the Black community and the African diaspora into the spotlight. Watch drill teams and marching bands, take part in a basketball tournament, and listen to incredible Afrobeats and soul music.

October and November
Earshot Jazz Festival

For more than 30 years the Earshot Jazz Festival has shined a spotlight on local and international jazz giants. Catch concerts, participate in panel discussions, and hang out with other jazz fans at this beloved event.