Long Beach kicked off Black History Month with a free community event on Friday in the Bixby Knolls neighborhood.
As part of the Long Beach Public Library’s monthlong Black History Month celebration, “For the Culture,” a community event took place at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach, which featured cultural programming, local vendors showcasing artist-made goods and an interactive art experience. The event was presented in partnership with the local nonprofit The SIX, Forgotten Images and the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach.
“For the Culture” is designed for families and community members of all ages to celebrate Black joy, identity, self-care and artistic expression, according to the library’s announcement.
Attendees check out historical and cultural displays at the Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Sharon McLucas of “Forgotten Images” and organizer of the Black History Month kickoff festivities, middle, is joined by District 5 Councilmember Megan Kerr and Rep. Robert Garcia on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Attendees walk through a photo exhibit at a Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Young dancers perform at a Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Attendees check out historical and cultural displays at the Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Hundreds of people attend a Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Hundreds of people attend a Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Attendees check out historical and cultural displays at the Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Attendees check out historical and cultural displays at the Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Attendees kick up their heels for urban line dancing at a Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Dancer Helena Sedler holds Kennedy, 1, during a Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
Attendees watch a dance performance at a Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
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Attendees check out historical and cultural displays at the Black History Month kickoff celebration on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the African American Cultural Center of Long Beach. (Photo by Howard Freshman, Contributing Photographer)
The community event also featured urban line dancing, a spoken word showcase, a step show, a community resource fair, and vendors selling soul food and Southern desserts.
The African American Cultural Center of Long Beach presented a special exhibit, called “Built to Last: Legacy, Strength, Resilience,” honoring Black contributions through inspiring art and history. Renowned portrait artist Mohammed Mubarak’s work is featured in the exhibit and was present during the event. Live music filled the air as Long Beach residents and visitors of all ages moved through the art gallery.
The library’s event occurred at the same time as Bixby Knolls’ First Friday, and this month highlighted Black culture with special art exhibits, food, and exclusive deals at local shops and restaurants. Attendees enjoyed live music at nearly every corner of the business corridor along Atlantic Avenue and explored, dined, shopped and celebrated in the community.