October is Black History Month, and this year’s theme ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’ celebrates the strength, resilience, and achievements of Black communities. It’s a time to honour the voices of courageous and inspiring people, both past and present.
To mark the month, we’re shining a spotlight on a range of powerful events across London, each one led by Black creators, leaders, and changemakers. Here are some of the amazing events and celebrations taking place over the coming weeks:
Black Culture Market
Black Culture Market supports emerging entrepreneurs & new black businesses of African & Caribbean descent with opportunities to showcase and sell their products in the retail industry.
If you’re looking for gifts, cards, unique prints, jewellery, male grooming kits, skincare, clothes or other original accessories come down! This market truly embodies the community’s spirit as well as supports black businesses.
Date: Saturday, 4th & Sunday 5th October
Location: Department Store, 248 Ferndale Road, Brixton, London, SW9 8FR
Gathered Voices: Words of Wisdom Rooted in Strength
A one-off creative writing and poetry workshop celebrating the voices, stories, and cultural legacy of older Black residents in Barnet.
No writing experience needed – just your voice and story. Open to African and Caribbean or Black British Adults 50+. People under 50 must be accompanied with an adult over 50 or representing an older person.
Date: Wednesday, 8th October
Location: Hendon Library, The Burroughs, London NW4 4BQ
Love letters to our people: Writing PanAfrican feminist histories
Join Dr. Nydia A. Swaby, author of Amy Ashwood Garvey and the Future of Black Feminist Archives and Jessica Horn, author of African Feminist Praxis: Cartographies of Liberatory Worldmaking in conversation as they explore the texture and emotion around researching and adding to the archive of PanAfrican feminist resistance.
Date: Saturday, 11th October
Location: The Feminist Library, 161 Sumner Road London SE15 6JL
Black British Hood Feminism: Building Creative Communities
This event will feature the premiere of Hillarynx’s new music video The 3rd, directed by Lauren Gee. In response to the film, Hillarynx has invited Claudia Wilson of Pure Vinyl Records and artist/producer Maniko to present a special sonic reflection that blends live piano with vinyl.
After the screening, Lauren Gee will chair a conversation with Hillarynx, Maniko, NuAloe, and Claudia Wilson, followed by more live performances.
Date: Saturday, 11th October
Location: South London Gallery, 65 Peckham Road London SE5 8UH
Black British Book Festival
The Black British Book Festival is more than just an event, it’s a movement dedicated to uplifting and celebrating Black British literature.
Since its inception, BBBF has become a powerful platform for amplifying the voices and stories of Black British authors, creating spaces where diverse narratives can flourish, and nurturing a vibrant community committed to enhancing visibility and opportunities for Black British writers.
Date: Sunday, 19th October
Location: Barbican Centre, Silk St, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DS