Black pioneers first arrived in Seattle in the mid-19th century. The city’s earliest known African American resident was Manuel Lopes, who arrived in 1852 from Cabo Verde. A couple of decades later, African Americans began migrating to the Pacific Northwest from Southern states to work in coal mines. During this period, two Black enclaves began to take shape in Seattle: one along East Madison Street and another in the Central District. More than 100 years later, many of the same churches and social clubs from those early days are still standing. 

During Black History Month, take time to explore the businesses and institutions that are integral to Seattle’s—and especially the Central District’s—historic and contemporary fabric. From events and book readings marking the occasion to monuments, galleries, and businesses worth visiting year-round, here are ways to honor Black history in Seattle this February and beyond. 

Black History Month events

Several Black History Month-specific events are taking place across the greater Seattle area in February. 

Join Bainbridge Island Art Museum for its Black History Month Soirée on February 21 for an evening of live music, performances, and a marketplace.

Throughout February, Columbia City Theatre has been transformed into a museum with exhibits celebrating Black history and culture, under the name “Call to Conscience.” 

Stop by Elliott Bay Book Company for two timely readings. On February 23, Ralina Joseph, a professor of African American Studies at UCLA, will discuss her new book, Racial Exhaustion: How to Move Through Racism in the Wake of DEI. On February 26, author and University of Pennsylvania professor Dorothy Roberts will speak about her recently released book, The Mixed Marriage Project: A Memoir of Love, Race, and Family.

Looking ahead, future events to keep in mind include the Juneteenth Freedom Festival and Umoja Fest, both held at Judkins Park in August. 

Important historical and cultural monuments

From art institutions to monuments celebrating influential Black figures in Washington’s history, there are many spaces worth visiting throughout the year. Several also host special exhibits and programs throughout February. 

Northwest African American Museum: Located in the Central District, the Northwest African American Museum, or NAAM, serves as an institution celebrating Black heritage and a “gathering place of hope, help, and healing for the entire Northwest region.” Exhibits and programs across visual art, music, and literature tell the stories of African Americans in the Northwest, with expanded programming during Black History Month.

Jimi Hendrix Park: After you’ve made your way through NAAM, stop by Jimi Hendrix Park, just outside the museum. Adorned with his signature and a timeline of his life, the park is a dedication to the musician who was born in Seattle. 

Wa Na Wari: A center for Black art and community in the Central District, Wa Na Wari means “Our Home.” Located in the former home of the Green family, the space continues a legacy of community gathering and joy through exhibitions, events, and organizing.

Douglass-Truth Branch: This Central District branch of the Seattle Public Library is known for its extensive African American history and literature collections. Spend an afternoon browsing the titles in the space named for Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth. 

Black businesses to support

From breweries and art galleries to coffee shops and restaurants, this is just a handful of the Black-owned businesses worth visiting this month and throughout the year.

Arte Noir: Founded by Vivian Phillips, this Central District gallery and gift shop celebrates local artists and sells products made by Black creators, including jewelry, books, and homeware.

Communion: The acclaimed Central District restaurant by Chef Kristi Brown, stop by Communion for a taste of Seattle soul in a community-inspired space. 

Boona Boona Coffee: Inspired by the Eritrean roots of owner Efrem Fesaha, Boona Boona reflects Eritrean coffee culture and sources beans from across East Africa. Its waterfront location is expected to open in February. 

WeRise Wines: A wine bar in downtown Seattle, WeRise is dedicated to pouring wines from underrepresented winemakers, including Black winemakers, who make up just 1% of the industry. 

Jerk Shack Chicken: Inspired by owner Trey Lamont’s Jamaican heritage, Jerk Shack serves up Caribbean-inspired plates, sandwiches, and sides. 

BLMF Literary Saloon: A small bookstore in Pike Place Market, BLMF Literary Saloon sells an eclectic range of titles, lovingly stocked by long-time owner J.B. Johnson. 

Métier Brewing: Rodney Hines developed this brewery and community gathering space in the Central District, crafting innovative beers with art inspired by influential Black figures across history. While you’re there, grab bites from Lil’ Brown Girl, a quick-service restaurant by Kristi Brown. 

Manifest by Fatima: Artisanal candles sold at Pike Place.

For additional ways to support Black-owned businesses, the Urban League’s Black Business Directory is a helpful place to start, along with Intentionalist’s Black History Month list. Intentionalist also promotes Black-owned businesses year-round through its Buy Black Card, which offers a 20% discount.