BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (WISH) — Bloomington, Indiana, officials are inviting residents and visitors to take part in the city’s 2026 Black History Month events. The festivities will begin with a Kick-Off Celebration on Saturday, Feb. 7 at City Hall, located at 401 N. Morton Street. Doors open a t 3:30 p.m., with the program beginning at 4 p.m. in Council Chambers. The event is free and open to the public. The 2026 Black History Month theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” recognizes the history and contributions that have shaped local and national culture, and highlights opportunities for the community to connect through music, performance, and youth expression. The Kick-Off Celebration will feature a performing arts showcase highlighting local students, artists, and performers. The program, “Showcasing the Performing Arts,” will be emceed by Nia I’man Smith, doctoral candidate in ethnomusicology and host of Sonic Blackness on WFHB. Featured performers include: Indiana University African American Choral Ensemble. Fairview Elementary School Show Choir and Drummers. Bloomington Montessori School Chorus. Jada Chivers, poet. Black, Brown, and Beige Theatre Troupe. Additional events during the month include: Black Market: Saturday, Feb. 14/10 a.m. – 2 p.m./City Hall – A public market featuring Black-owned businesses, creators, and organizations, acknowledging the history of Bloomington’s original Black Market while supporting today’s local entrepreneurs. Black History Month Poster Board Content Ceremony: Saturday, Feb. 21/12 p.m. – 2 p.m./City Hall – A recognition event highlighting artwork created by local youth. Black History Month Gala: Saturday, Feb. 28/One World at Woolery Mill (2250 W. Sunstone Dr., Suite 100) – An evening of dining, music, and recognition honoring the 2026 Living Legend recipients and the Commission on the Status of Black Males’ Outstanding Black Leaders of Tomorrow. A reception and silent auction will be held at 6 p.m. on Feb. 28. The Black History Month Gala will begin at 7 p.m. on Feb. 28. Tickets must be reserved in advance through the Buskirk-Chumley Theater Box Office, located at 114 E. Kirkwood Ave., online at bctboxoffice.org, or by phone at 812-323-3020. A full schedule of the events is available at http://bloomington.in.gov/bhm. (Provided Photo/City of Bloomington, IN – Office of the Mayor via Facebook) ...read more read less