DES MOINES, Iowa — February is Black History Month, a time for Iowans to recognize the culture, achievements and legacy of Black individuals in Iowa and across the country.
There are many Black History Month events being held across the Des Moines metro. From art exhibits and scavenger hunts to festivals and lectures, there are activities available for Iowans of all ages.
Don't see an event on the list? Let us know by sending us a message on Facebook, visiting our "Contact Us" page or texting us at 515-457-1026.
Des Moines Public Library scavenger hunts
Throughout the month of February, Des Moines Public Library locations across the city will organize Black History Month scavenger hunts. These activities are completely free and suitable for all ages.
- Authors Scavenger Hunt: Central Library, Feb. 1-10
- Black Scientists and Innovators Scavenger Hunt: Forest Avenue Library, Feb. 6-10
- Influential Figures Scavenger Hunt: Central Library, Feb. 11-18 and Feb. 20-24
- Amazing Artists Scavenger Hunt: South Side Library, Feb. 20-March 2
- Where: The Jordan House (2001 Fuller Road, West Des Moines)
- When: Fridays and Sundays, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
- Price: $5
The Jordan House is available to tour year round, but February is a perfect time to take advantage of this historical location right here in central Iowa. The Jordan House is one of the oldest structures in Polk County, having once served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Make sure to reserve your ticket to see this storied home.
- Where: Wells Fargo Arena (730 3rd St., Des Moines)
- When: Saturday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m.
- Price: Tickets start at $21
Basketball and Black history converge at this faceoff between the Iowa Wolves and the Sioux Falls Skyforce. The game is dedicated to "honoring and celebrating the rich and diverse history of the African American community". The first 1,000 fans will receive a complimentary BLK and Bold coffee. In addition, attendees will have a chance to participate in a jersey auction with all proceeds going directly to the African American Museum of Iowa.
- Where: Forest Avenue Library (1326 Forest Ave., Des Moines)
- When: Feb. 4-17 during library hours
- Price: Free
The Forest Avenue Library invites patrons to look at photo books, graphic novels and other visual records of Black history. While the books are available to check out all year, this display allows visitors to take extra time to reflect and learn.
- Where: Forest Avenue Library Meeting Room (1326 Forest Ave., Des Moines)
- When: Monday, Feb. 5, 4-6 p.m.
- Price: Free
Iowans of all ages are invited to this free movie night. Attendees will watch "The Hate U Give", a 2018 film about a Black high school student dealing with the death of her friend, who died after a police officer shot him during a traffic stop. Movie watchers will eat popcorn and complete an activity during the film. Note this movie is rated PG-13.
- Where: Des Moines Art Center (4700 Grand Ave., Des Moines)
- When: Friday, Feb. 9, 5-7 p.m.
- Price: Free
Visit the Des Moines Art Center for the opening celebration of "States of Becoming", an exhibition examining the forces of relocation, resettling and assimilation that shaped a group of African artists working in the U.S.
17 artists from 13 different countries are represented in the exhibition. In addition to enjoying the art, attendees can enjoy drinks and African cuisine served by Bah Kunda Kitchen.
If you can't make it to the exhibit's opening, don't worry: It will be at the Des Moines Art Center through May 12.
- Where: East Side Library Children's Area (2559 Hubbell Ave., Des Moines)
- When: Tuesday, Feb. 13, 1-5 p.m.
- Price: Free
Children are invited to weave together a "Diversity Heart" to celebrate both Black History Month and Valentine's Day. This free event will get kids out of the house and help them learn about the importance of diversity and inclusivity.
- Where: Temple Theater (1011 Locust St., Des Moines)
- When: Thursday, Feb. 15 at 6 p.m.
- Price: Free
Capital City Pride welcomes a different speaker each month through its Speaker Series. For Black History Month, the organization welcomes Brea Baker, "a queer Black millennial woman working at the intersections of race, gender identity, public safety, and community." Baker will share her experiences as an organizer, advocate and communications strategist to educate listeners on creating a culture that "affirms everyone's right to thrive."
- Where: Urbandale Public Library (3520 86th St., Urbandale)
- When: Feb. 15-29 during library hours
- Price: Free
DMPL isn't the only library hosting scavenger hunts in honor of Black History Month. The Urbandale Public Library invites patrons to visit the library and find 9 themed pictures hidden throughout the children's area. Once you find them all, you can sign the "champion's log".
- Where: Horizon Events Center (2100 NW 100th St., Clive)
- When: Saturday, Feb. 10, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Price: Free
Iowa's "premiere African American festival" is celebrating 26 years of showcasing African American culture in the state. The festival will feature more than 40 performing artists, visual artists and artist groups from across the country. With multiple stages, a kids carnival, a wellness expo and an array of food vendors, there's truly something for everyone.
- Where: West Des Moines Public Library (4000 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines)
- When: Sunday, Feb. 18, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
- Price: Free
Join the West Des Moines Library and the West Des Moines Historical Society to learn more about Center Street, a vibrant Black neighborhood nestled in Des Moines from 1900-1970. The neighborhood was destroyed when Interstate 235 was constructed, going straight through the thriving business district. Leo Landis of the State Historical Society will share pictures, documents and stories about the history of Center Street.