Celebrating Black History Month across Bristol
October marks Black History Month, a national celebration of the achievements, contributions and resilience of Black communities. This year's theme, Honouring Our Communities, shines a spotlight on the people and organisations whose leadership, creativity and everyday acts of care strengthen our communities and help future generations thrive.
For the St Paul's Carnival CIC, celebrating African-Caribbean culture, heritage and community is at the heart of everything we do. Black History Month is an opportunity to honour the stories, achievements and contributions that have shaped our communities, while celebrating the creativity, resilience and leadership that continue to inspire future generations.
Across Bristol, community groups, cultural organisations, artists and historians are hosting a diverse programme of events exploring Black history, identity, music, creativity and social change. Whether you're looking to learn something new, support local creatives or spend time with family and friends, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
Explore Bristol's Musical Heritage
Music has always been at the heart of Bristol's cultural identity, and this month offers a chance to celebrate the African and African-Caribbean influences that helped shape the city's world-renowned sound.
On 16 October, Inherited Rhythms with DJ Style & Friends at M Shed will bring together musicians, storytellers and cultural pioneers to explore Bristol's vibrant music scene of the 1980s and the communities behind it, followed by an after-party celebrating the sounds that continue to influence generations today. Tickets are available here
Visitors can also experience the This Is Jungle Takeover – Poster Designs Exhibition, a celebration of Bristol's influential jungle and early drum and bass culture running throughout October. You can find out more about this exciting exhibition here.
Reflect on stories of resistance and change
Bristol's history is complex, and Black History Month provides an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the people who challenged injustice and helped shape the city we know today.
The Historical Walk: Bristol Abolition offers guided tours through key locations connected to Bristol's involvement in slavery and the movement to end it, encouraging participants to reflect on the legacy of abolition and the individuals who fought for change.
Community members can also explore Bristol's recent cultural history through Unseen: Screening of Kuumba Centre's Video Archive, showcasing archive footage celebrating the stories, achievements and experiences of Black communities in the city. You can RSVP for this event free here
Another highlight of this year's programme is First Born Second: Voices of the Children of the Windrush Era at Watershed on 29 October. This powerful documentary explores the lives, challenges and achievements of the children of the Windrush generation, sharing personal stories of growing up Black in Britain during the 1970s and 1980s. Featuring voices from Bristol, including community leaders, creatives and educators, the film offers an important reflection on identity, resilience and the lasting impact of the Windrush legacy. The screening will be followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Michelle Pascal, writer and curator Roger Griffith MBE, and members of the cast. Tickets are still available but are selling quickly. Find out more and book your place here.
Get creative and connect through culture
Creativity has always been a powerful way to tell stories, preserve heritage and bring communities together.
On 14 October, Threads of Home: A Textile and Heritage Workshop invites participants to explore identity, heritage and belonging through textiles and storytelling. More information on this event can be found here.
Meanwhile, Paint a Tote Bag: Celebrating Black History Month on 19 October at UWE Bristol, offers a hands-on opportunity to discover African-inspired designs and artistic traditions. More details on this free event can be found here.
Families are also invited to attend Wear Your Story at M Shed on 24 October, celebrating the rich textile traditions of the Yoruba people of Nigeria through creative upcycling activities. This event will be led by artist Tomi, more details can be found here.
Join the celebration
Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the people, stories and cultural traditions that continue to enrich Bristol today. Whether through music, art, film, heritage or community events, these celebrations help ensure that Black history is recognised not just during October, but throughout the year.
We encourage everyone to explore the fantastic programme taking place across Bristol and support the organisations, artists and community leaders helping to keep these stories alive for future generations.