February is a dedicated month to recognize and honour the history, contributions, and experiences of Black Canadians, whose leadership and resilience have helped shape Canada’s social, cultural, economic, and political landscapes.
Black History Month also provides an opportunity to learn more about the contributions of Black communities, reflect on our shared history, and reaffirm our commitment to respect, inclusion, and understanding in our workplace and the communities we serve.
The City of Peterborough and the City of Kawartha Lakes is set to celebrate Black History Month with a variety of events and activities; Here are some highlights:
February 15, 2026; Peterborough Public Library; 1:00PM-3:30PM
AANP Black History Month Celebration
The Afrocentric Awareness Network of Peterborough will be celebrating Black History Month with Nigerian dance, Jamaican and African foods and an African-themed craft.
1:00 pm – Dining (bring a potluck dish or just join in!)
2:00 pm – Presentation
2:30 pm – Nigerian dance workshop.
3:00 pm – African-themed craft
Black History Month 2026: Celebrating the Path, Advancing the Vision, Online Event
Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Tickets available via Eventbrite
Summary: Through the lenses of three historians Dr. Rosemary Sadlier, Dr. Afua Cooper and Irene Moore-Davis , the inaugural event will highlight the historical journey toward the recognition of Black History Month in Canada, shedding light on the efforts, struggles, and challenges that made this recognition possible and what it means for current and future generations while grounding today’s celebrations in their broader historical and social context.
Black History Month Proclamation Showcase
Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N)
Summary: Hosted by the Community Race Relations Committee (CRRC), this showcase features Black vendors, artists, and performers to celebrate the official proclamation of Black History Month.
Peterborough Museum & Archives Exhibits
Date: Throughout February 2026
Location: Peterborough Museum & Archives (300 Hunter St. E)
Summary: Self-guided children’s craft activities and exhibits highlighting the legacy of Black Canadians. Open 9 AM–5 PM weekdays and 12 PM–5 PM weekends.
Library Showcase: “Celebrate Black Voices”
Date: Throughout February 2026
Location: Peterborough Public Library (Main Library and MLCC Branch)
Summary: Curated book displays in both adult and children’s sections featuring Black authors and historical figures.
Celebrate Black Voices Book Displays
Date: February 5 – February 17, 2026
Location: Kawartha Lakes Public Library Branches (Lindsay, Omemee, Bobcaygeon, etc.)
Summary: Special curated book displays in both adult and children’s sections across multiple branches to highlight Black authors and history.
Black History Month Film Screenings
Date: February 10, February 13, and February 24, 2026
Location: Kawartha Lakes Public Library — Lindsay Branch (190 Kent St W, Lindsay)
Summary: The library hosts multiple film events, including children’s movies like Hair Love and The Princess and the Frog (Feb 10), a screening and discussion of Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Feb 13), and the 2023 Little Mermaid (Feb 24).
Tween & Adult Book Club Discussions
Date: February 15 & February 27, 2026
Location: Kawartha Lakes Public Library — Lindsay Branch
Summary: The Tween Book Club will discuss Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds on Feb 15, and the Adult Book Club will discuss Black Buck by Mateo Askaripour on Feb 27.
Black History Month Celebration, February 21, 2026, 3:00-6:00PM
Date: February 21 2026, 3:00-6:00PM
Location: Celebrations Lindsay
Summary: This February, Kawartha Lakes & Haliburton Integrated Immigrant Services Association (KLHIISA) — with support from community partners — is hosting a meaningful Black History Month celebration featuring educational activities and a free, family-friendly main event.
Movie Screening – Akeelah and the Bee
Date: February 7 2026, 1:00-3:00PM
Location: Haliburton Public Library, Dysart – Minden Hills
Summary: Celebrate Black History Month with a free community film screening of Akeelah and the Bee on Saturday, February 7.
This uplifting drama follows Akeelah Anderson, an 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles who discovers a remarkable talent for spelling and, with the encouragement of her community and coach, sets her sights on the national spelling bee. Along the way, she overcomes self-doubt, stereotypes, and personal challenges in a story about perseverance, community support, and believing in yourself.
Movie is rated PG. No registration required.
