Grand Prairie is kicking off its month-long Black History Month series, The Black Experience 2026, with two free events on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1.
Events happening this weekend include the Unity in Motion 5K on Saturday at Epic Central. The event begins at 7 a.m., and the race starts at 8 a.m.
A gospel concert is scheduled for Sunday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at St. John Church on West Jefferson Street. Organizers say both events are free and open to the public.
The City of Grand Prairie and the Grand Prairie Black History Commission say the series will run throughout February 2026 and feature programs focused on Black history, health, arts, family, faith and economic empowerment.
This is the second annual Black History Month series and the largest citywide Black History Month celebration in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The multi-event series builds on the success of its inaugural year in 2025, which drew more than 500 attendees to the flagship Rhythm and Roots celebration.
Other events include the Health Is Your Wealth Expo, focused on health screenings, wellness sessions and personal development; A Tasteful Affair healthy cooking demonstration featuring a live cooking experience centered on nutritious, culturally relevant meals; and Student of Love with Laterras R. Whitfield, hosted by the creator of the Dear Future Wifey podcast.
The public is also invited to particpate in Ebony-Opoly Game Day, a family-friendly board game event highlighting history and economic empowerment; In the Eye of the Storm, a political forum exploring civic engagement and the Black experience hosted by David Chapelle and featuring Commissioner Alicha Simmons and other guests; and Education to Economics, a combined Greek showcase, HBCU college fair and Black business fair connecting education and entrepreneurship.
The series will conclude with the Rhythm and Roots cultural celebration and the Grand Prairie Black Film Festival, produced in collaboration with the Denton Black Film Festival.