Our city is a hubbub of exciting goings-on; wherever you look, there's a fantastic live music gig, cultural exhibition or likewise keeping us entertained. And with Black History Month, we're shining a light on just some of the amazing black-run events in London. From Caribbean bottomless brunches and art installations to celebratory festivals, here's what to check out.
The Hackney Social
Found over in East London, The Hackney Social is a creative, community space that celebrates all things art and music. Pop by to catch exciting performances, from jazz and hip hop fusion sounds to emerging rap artists spitting bars. They also regularly collaborate with Black Eats London, setting up a fantastic black-owned market in London - just keep an eye on its listings for the latest info.
Gospel Sundays
Gospel Sundays are taking over Rich Mix on weekends, bringing you the chance to enjoy exciting live performances across multiple dates throughout September, October and November 2023. But that's not all, as you'll also get an insight into the genre's history - think everything from plantation life to current African American and British culture.
Ma Petite Jamaica
Having made quite the name for itself as the city's first Caribbean diner, Ma Petite Jamaica now has two venues in Camden and Shoreditch under its belt. At both, they rustle up cool Afro-Caribbean events in London - mega Jamaican Bottomless Brunches. Fill your boots with dishes such as the tongue-tingling jerk chicken wings or fragrant St Lucian coconut fish curry, and wash it all down with punch, rum maria or prosecco.
The Prince of Peckham
Owned by Clement Ogbonnaya, The Prince of Peckham is a gorgeous boozer that’s won the hearts of many a South London imbiber. It flaunts slinky interiors, from hanging foliage to vintage wallpaper. But did you know this place also puts together lots of cracking goings-on? Think fun pub quizzes, mates and dates nights, plus hospitality industry discount evenings.
Old Skl Brunch
Love yourself a bottomless party? We know just the thing - Old Skl Brunch. Founded by a collective of musicians and creators, it hosts regular black parties in London, where you can snap up two mouthwatering courses, free-flowing rum punch or prosecco and fun giveaways. That’s not all, as it also promises live DJs and lip-sync battles, with the chance to throw shapes on the dancefloor to absolute bangers.
Wood & Water
Fusing modern British cuisine with Jamaica flair over in Brixton, Wood & Water from April Jackson is slinging out scrumptious small plates that’ll have you coming back time and time again. Moreover, it keeps us entertained during the weekends with its fabulous bottomless brunches – and even the odd supper club offering Caribbean flavours, pairing them with plenty of rum, music and good vibes.
Duo
A poppin’ party palace over in Camden, Duo is a much-loved destination for lip-smacking plates, killer cocktails and late-night debauchery. And to top it all off, the founder, Julian Holder, puts together all manner of exciting events. What’s on the roster? Party N Paint sessions, UKG Bingo, plus pancake and prosecco bottomless brunches. But that’s not all, as it also holds club nights on Saturdays, complete with banging beats and exclusive packages.
Limin' Beach Club
Celebrating the sights, sounds and flavours of Trinidad and Tobago, Limin’ Beach Club is quite the vibe. It’s a welcome calm from the hustle and bustle of Southbank, with sand under your feet and pretty palm trees. You can often find the owner, Sham Mahabir, in the kitchen, whipping up a storm. This cool hangout also hosts lots of fun things to do, from rum-tasting sessions to beach parties.
Black Cultural Archives
Brixton's Black Cultural Archives, managed by Lisa Anderson, is renowned for holding some of the best black cultural events in London for 2022, from book readings and plays to exhibitions. Plus, until the 29th of January 2023, Transforming Legacies will bring together both up-and-coming and established creators to reflect on black British art from the last 40 years. Expect works from the likes of Karis Beaumont and Enam Gbewonyo, as well as talks with Alvin Kofi, Pacheanne Anderson and Lisa Anderson.
Dear Black Women & Girls Festival
From CURLYTREATS, who are renowned for their afro hair events, comes one of the best black festivals in the UK. Taking place at NOVOTEL West London on the 11th of March 2023, International Women's Day, Dear Black Women & Girls Festival will boast an extensive programme of activities. They'll be shining a light on the sacrifices, political achievements and inspirational contributions of the black women who shaped the world that we see today.
Museum of London: London's Black History
On the hunt for black exhibitions in London? Museum of London is exploring black culture in the capital with a lineup of top-notch events. Venture over for the free display that delves into the history of grime or one that shines a light on African and Caribbean businesses. Or, if you fancy scoping out some art, there's a curation that showcases pieces from the 1980s through to the present day.
Discover more of the best black-owned restaurants in London with our guide here and sign up to our newsletter for the latest openings.