Black History Month is the essential annual observance that celebrates and pays homage to Black history, achievements, and contributions across the globe.
In the UK, this celebration was first inaugurated in October 1987 by Ghanaian analyst and activist Akyaaba Addai Sebo. Addai Sebo, a special projects coordinator for the Greater London Council, who was inspired to boost the self-esteem of Black British children and ensure their history was recognised.
The month of October was deliberately chosen to coincide with the African calendar and the start of the academic year.
The month serves as a crucial annual moment to shine a spotlight on persistent racial inequalities that demand action. For example, the pay gap shows that Black, African, Caribbean, or Black British employees consistently earned less (£13.53 median gross hourly pay in 2022) than their White colleagues (£14.35). Furthermore, a significant 70% of Black, Black British, Caribbean, or African respondents in a 2025 survey reported experiencing some form of discrimination in the workplace or when applying for a new job.
As well as this, the need for greater education and awareness is underscored by a 2023 YouGov survey, which found that 53% of British people couldn't name a single Black historical figure. The month symbolises a call to action to reduce anti-Black prejudice, promote genuine racial equality.
When is Black History Month 2025?
Black History Month is celebrated in October, starting from the 1st of the month.
There are events scheduled throughout the month, with this year’s theme being ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride.’
“This year’s theme is not only about remembrance but a call to action. It invites individuals and communities to stand firm in their power with pride and to actively shape a world where Black voices are heard, valued, and celebrated. Black History Month 2025 will challenge us to break down barriers, continue pushing for progress, own our spaces, and walk confidently into the future,” reads the statement on the BHM website.
How to celebrate Black History Month in London
There are hundreds of events going on in London throughout October to celebrate Black History Month.
That includes educational events, such as historical walking tours or lectures, to creative performances from Black poets, actors, musicians, and more.
Here is a list of some of the many events taking place this month:
1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair (Somerset House)
The leading global art fair dedicated to contemporary African art and its diaspora.
Dates- 16th -19th October
Price- £32/£18 concessions, £100 VIP (Thursday only)
Black Culture Market (Brixton)
A popular weekend pop-up supporting Black-owned businesses, featuring unique goods, food, and culture.
Dates- 4th-5th October
Classically Black Festival (Kings Place)
A full-day event championing Black and global majority excellence in classical music, featuring discussions and performances. The event is now in its 2nd year, with tickets currently available online for the events taking place on the day.
Date- 18th October
Price- Standard tickets are £15, and afternoon and evening passes stand at £40
The Black British Book Festival (Barbican Centre)
Europe's largest celebration of Black literature, featuring author talks, workshops, and family events. Notable events at this year's festival include June Sarpong OBE and Dame Denise Lewis DBE reflecting on legacy and power and a discussion with Sir Lenny Henry, Marcus Ryder and Eric Collins on Reparations, Power and the Price of Justice.
Date-19th October
Black Atlantic: power, people, resistance exhibition
First shown at the University of Cambridge, the award-winning exhibition is coming to LSE this October and reveals hidden stories of colonial exploitation and resistance from the Black Atlantic, using art, objects, and historical archives.
If you have an idea that you don’t see represented, you can also get involved with hosting your own event. BHM organisers have put together a resource pack to help people get involved on their own terms.
It also includes plenty of resources to teach others, geared towards people of all ages.
