Discover Black history in Illinois, where the past and the present come together. Explore iconic landmarks, world-class museums and vibrant neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in soulful music and art. Honor the resilience and creativity of the Black community with every step you take. This Black History Month, Illinois is the perfect place to celebrate the countless contributions that have shaped and enriched our history.
A Taste of Culture: Chicago Black Restaurant Week
February 9 - 23
Since 2015, Chicago’s Black Restaurant Week has served to elevate Black-owned businesses and provide a spotlight on their contributions to the Chicago food scene. From soulful classics to bold, modern flavors, this celebration showcases talented chefs, inventive dishes, and a deliciously diverse array of cuisines waiting to be discovered.
Black Illinois Makers
Lexington Betty Smokehouse
Chef Dominique’s Chicago-style BBQ restaurant pays homage to grandmother Betty King’s soulful home cooking. Equipped with those memories of delicious family meals and a little culinary flair of her own, she built Lexington Betty Smokehouse, where she and her wife Tanisha have been serving up delicious BBQ and sides since 2016.
Einnim Candle Bar + Apothecary
Specializing in customized soy wax candles, goat milk soap bars, body + hair products, and more, Einnim Candle Bar + Apothecary works to ensure that every product they sell is thoughtfully designed to stand for equality, happiness, health, and positivity.
The Irie Cup
This family-inspired, owned, and operated tea company is run by husband and wife Joseph and LaShanda Lewis with the occasional helping hand from any of their three growing children.
Aria’s Cookies & Confections
Teenage entrepreneur Aria Burnside is proof that age is just a number. The baking prodigy opened her own successful storefront at only 17, and with her delicious signature cookies and gourmet cupcakes, her dessert empire has just begun.
Honoring the Black Experience: Engage, Reflect, Celebrate
Michal Dawson Connor performs at The Hoogland Center for the Arts
Friday, February 28 at 7 pm
In celebration of Black History Month, bass-baritone Michal Dawson Connor will be performing his own arrangements of Spirituals at the Hoogland Center for the Arts. These Sorrow Songs are a living testament to the grit and determination of the Black people who labored under the yoke of bondage in America, and their descendants still fighting for justice and freedom.
Take a Tour Through Black History
Discover museums that celebrate Black culture and art. Visit the sites where freedom seekers traveled along the Underground Railroad. Wherever you explore, Illinois welcomes you to embrace the powerful legacy of its Black roots.
Owen Lovejoy Homestead Owen Lovejoy Homestead
Discover Illinois with Dilla
Urban historian Shermann ‘Dilla’ Thomas partnered with Enjoy Illinois to share the rich cultural experiences of Illinois’ Black neighborhoods, historical attractions, and destinations throughout the state.
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