Wandsworth Council’s Black History 365 programme returns in 2026 with an inspiring borough-wide programme of free events, workshops and creative projects celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of African and Caribbean communities.
Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and delivered by a diverse group of local artists, organisations and community leaders, the programme will bring residents of all ages together through storytelling, music, dance, heritage, visual arts and performance. From family-friendly African storytelling and drumming sessions, Caribbean dance classes for older residents and intergenerational projects connecting elders and young people, to community celebrations, concerts and cultural festivals, Black History 365 will create opportunities to learn, connect and celebrate throughout the year.
This year’s programme includes projects exploring the legacy of London’s first Black mayor, John Archer; the history of Notting Hill Carnival and the Windrush generation; and the African roots of Battersea Park’s Subtropical Gardens through innovative scent-making workshops. Residents will also be invited to share oral histories, take part in steel pan and drama workshops, celebrate Caribbean heritage through music and performance, and engage in conversations around identity, wellbeing and belonging. Together, the programme will amplify Black voices, preserve community stories and strengthen cultural understanding across Wandsworth, ensuring that Black history is recognised, celebrated and embedded in the borough’s cultural life all year round.
Tales & Drums: Author Kamapala Chukwuka will lead interactive storytelling and drumming sessions celebrating African heritage for children and families.
Age UK Wandsworth will deliver a six-month programme of weekly movement classes exploring Caribbean dance, music and culture for residents aged 50+.
Mbeke Waseme will lead an intergenerational project connecting African Caribbean elders and young people in Roehampton to share experiences and explore life questions.
Royal Academy of Dance will present a free community event celebrating Black history, heritage and culture through performances and workshops.
Akosua Paries-Osei, founder of The Black ArtChive, will lead creative workshops exploring the African roots of Battersea Park’s Subtropical Gardens through perfume and reed diffuser making.
Addy Mumunie of Begin2Sports Group Academy CIC will deliver Wandsworth Black Heritage Voices, a community storytelling project exploring African and Caribbean heritage in Battersea.
Pegasus Opera Co. will present a Legacy & Hope Concert and Elders Workshop celebrating Caribbean heritage through music, storytelling and community activities.
Sound Minds will deliver a drama project exploring African and Caribbean heritage and experiences of the mental health system through performance.
More Curricular will present an exhibition and creative workshops celebrating the legacy of John Archer, London’s first Black Mayor.
Ascend and Bloom CIC will explore the history of Notting Hill Carnival and the Windrush generation through workshops and a community festival in Roehampton.
Michael Mapp, founder of Urban Studio Sessions, will lead steel pan workshops culminating in a community performance.
Events will be listed on the Welcome to Wandsworth website, Wandsworth’s online home for arts & culture, a legacy of our year as London Borough of Culture 2025.
