• Chicago celebrates Black History Month throughout the city.chicago 1 image by Blu-Mu from Fotolia.com
  
  Chicago has a large African American population (over 35%), and, come February, there are many ways to celebrate Black History Month. Not just the black community takes part, but all Chicagoans show their pride in the history of black America. Chicago itself plays a strong role in the African American story.
  
  

DuSable Museum

• Though open all year round, the DuSable Museum of African American History is one of the most popular places to visit during February. It is the oldest museum in the country that is dedicated solely to the remembrance of black Americans. Located on the south side of Chicago, DuSable teaches visitors about the importance of black Americans as well as black Chicagoans throughout U.S. history.
  
  DuSable Museum
  740 East 56th Place
  Chicago, IL 60637
  773-947-0600
  dusablemuseum.org
  
  

Chicago Park District

• The Chicago Park District holds events throughout its massive park system. Most events are free, but some may cost a few dollars for admission. Plays, poetry readings, special guests, marketplaces and music performances entertain and educate the community. And don't worry, most of these events take place indoors, away from the sometimes brutally cold weather.
  
  Chicago Park District: Garfield Park‎
  100 N. Central Park Ave.
  Chicago, IL 60624
  312-746-5092
  chicagoparkdistrict.com
  
  

Tours

• To get a first-hand look at Chicago's part in African American history, take a tour around downtown. Some of the stops may include the Chicago Defender Building, the South Side Community Art Center, the Victory Monument and the former office and studio of Chess Records.
  
  Black CouTours
  P.O. Box 201896
  Chicago, IL 60620
  773-233-8907
  blackcoutours.com