A selection of Black History Month London events are taking place across the capital, recognising and celebrating the rich history of London’s African and Caribbean communities and their contribution to the city’s heritage.

Celebrating black culture and history
A varied range of events and exhibitions are taking place at venues throughout London during Black History Month 2010, with everything from exhibitions and live music to educational events and discussions on the menu. Events and exhibitions will be held throughout the season in various locations around London, with plenty to see and do for visitors.

Highlight events
Highlight events include a series of special talks and activities at the Museum of London Docklands that promise an insightful look into black history, music and culture in London. Join historian S.I. Martin for a revealing insight into the slave trade at West India Docks, see a special screening of the 1980s film Burning an Illusion, take part in a debate on the role of Fair Trade in Africa, or take the kids along to a dramatic retelling of the story of Queen Nanny of the Maroons.

Museum of London Docklands

2010 events
Taking place throughout October, Black History Month 2010 forms a key part of Black History Season as a whole. First celebrated in the UK in 1987 as part of African Jubilee Year, the Black History Month London events have become a main feature of London’s multicultural calendar, inviting Londoners of all ethnic backgrounds to learn more about black history and celebrate a vibrant, rich culture.

Southwark events
Southwark is one of the many local authorities putting on a season of great events that celebrate black culture and history in October 2010. Kingswood library is hosting an open mic event for reggae and soul musicians, while a Brixton Library, author Stephen Bourne is giving an illustrated talk on his new book, Mother Country, which charts the history of the black community during the Second World War. Other events taking place in Southwark include an afternoon of Anansi storytelling and crafts for kids at Peckham Library, and Afro-Caribbean baby rhyme time at Grove Cale Library; for more information on this and all the other events, click on the link below.

Southwark Council Official Site

A Charmed Life
Celebrate the life of a London resident of the Windrush generation at a documentary film screening of A Charmed Life at the National Portrait Gallery. The film documents the life of Eddie Martin Noble, and after the screening there's a panel discussion with actor Ray Fearon and Eddie's daughter, Valie Noble.

National Portrait Gallery

Old Royal Naval College
Kids can explore the life story of Caribbean sailor John Deman at the Old Royal Naval College. Deman fought at sea with Nelson's navy before retiring to the Royal Hospital in Greenwich, and after listening to the dramatic retelling of his adventures, children can make their own tricorn hat. The event takes place from 11am - 3pm, Sunday 17th October, and tickets cost £1.00 per child. The event takes place in the Clore Learning Centre at Discover Greenwich.

Old Royal Naval College

The Black History Month London events run throughout October 2010. For further information on Black History Season events, click on the link below.

Black History Month Official Site

More London Events

African Weekender at Trafalgar Square

London Film Festival

Half Term London Events and Activities

Big Draw London

Electric Proms

London Jazz Festival

Halloween London Events

Dance Umbrella London

London Childrens Film Festival

Lord Mayors Show

London Fireworks Displays

Cirque du Soleil London

Enchanted Palace Exhibition London