
Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
Today is the first day of Black History Month. Here are some events to support, recognize and celebrate Black leaders in our community.
Tampa's NFL history: The Tampa Bay History Center is kicking off its Black History Month event series with a Sangria and Stories discussion about how the University of Tampa's football team paved the way for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- 6-7:15pm Thursday at the downtown Tampa museum. Tickets: $20, include one glass of sangria and a behind-the-scenes tour with the curator.
Institute on Black Life: At this annual conference, researchers discuss topics that address racial injustice and healing through the arts. The event will also feature community-affirming ways to advance research collaborations between the arts sector and health agencies.
- 9am-6:30pm Thursday at USF's Sarasota Campus. Free!
Black History Festival: Head to Jackson Park in Lakeland for a celebration that includes artisan vendors, food trucks, kids' bounce houses and dance performances by Crystal's World of Dance. Plus, learn about the pioneers of the city's Black community during a neighborhood history walk at the Coleman-Bush Building.
- Saturday, Feb. 18, from 10am to 2pm. Free!
Shades Off: A showcase of local music and poetry performances in celebration of Black History Month, curated by Miesha Brundridge.
- Friday, Feb. 24, at 7pm at The Studio@620 in St. Petersburg. $10.

Get more local stories in your inbox with Axios Tampa Bay.
More Tampa Bay stories
No stories could be found

Get a free daily digest of the most important news in your backyard with Axios Tampa Bay.