Black History Month – Honouring Our Communities

“Honouring Our Communities” is a Black History Month 2026 programme rooted in arts, culture, and heritage, created for and with the residents of Tower Hamlets. Taking place throughout October, the project will feature exhibitions, wellness activities, conversations, and performances designed to celebrate Black creativity and honour Black history, culture, and talent.

Programme:

from 8 of October – Jena the Narrow Boat

Jena is a narrow boat visiting Poplar Union this October. We’re excited to host a variety of engaging events for everyone in the community throughout the month inside the boat! Jena will be stationed on the canal opposite Poplar Union.

9th-10th October: West India Docks Impounding Station Guided Tours- 2.15pm

23 October – Poetry Open Night

‘Your stage… Your show’ is a free open mic night celebrating poetry, creativity, community and great food. Perform, share, connect or sit back and enjoy an evening of creative expression. Everyone is welcome

24 October – Black History Month Market

Celebrate Black culture at our vibrant Black History Month Market. Discover unique crafts, delicious food, live music, and inspiring stories. A joyful day of community, creativity, and heritage for everyone.

24 October – Afro Hair Fayre

The Afro-Hair Fayre offers a culturally safe space to explore identity and self-expression, build confidence and self esteem, learn practical hair care skills for Afro and textured hair, and receive gentle styling or haircuts.
12-2pm – Learn to Braid Workshop
2pm-5pm – Haircuts & Hairstyling Hub

25 October – Soul Cinema

Join us for a family-friendly film day. We will be screening the Disney Pixar movie ‘Soul’. Joe’s true passion is jazz. But when he travels to another realm to help someone find their passion, he soon discovers what it means to have soul.