One of the UK’s only season-long celebrations of Black history, culture and creativity is back – from live concerts and film screenings to history talks and art exhibitions
Now in its sixth year, the Council’s trailblazing season will run from autumn into winter, offering London and visitors from across the UK the opportunity to immerse themselves in the contributions of Black people through stories, film, music and art.
The 2025 Season launched on Friday 3 October with a powerful evening of performance. from African drummers One Drum and moving spoken word performance from writer and poet Britny Virginia. Elsewhere in Camden, award-winning photographer Ian Watts introduced his immersive “Through the Lens” exhibition at Outernet London, which is featured throughout October.
This year’s theme for Black History Season is “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” highlighting the lasting contributions made by Black leaders, activists and pioneers who have shaped history, while looking ahead to a future of unity for all.
Most events are free of charge, though some operate a “pay what you can” system where proceeds will support the Umoja Health Forum, a Camden and Islington based charity championing health and wellbeing in African and Caribbean communities.
The wealth of events available to book now includes a never-before-seen digitised exhibition from the Neil Kenlock Archive, a conversation hosted by BBC presenter Eddie Kadi exploring the rise and influence of Nigerian music in the UK, and a screening of Horace Ové’s Pressure (1976) the first Black British feature film, capturing the anxieties of second generation West Indian living in Britain in the 70s.
The Council is collaborating with cultural cornerstones – including Everyman Cinema and the BFI – alongside the iconic Camden venue, KOKO to deliver a diverse calendar of events. With demand expected to be high, advance booking is recommended.
Councillor Sabrina Francis, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Culture and Young People said:
“We’ve always felt in Camden that one month is not long enough to amplify the rich tapestry of stories, culture and innovation that is Black History. As the years pass, we’re making more and more exciting connections to deliver what I believe to be the biggest celebration of Black History in the country. We’re proud to welcome communities from Camden, the capital and the country to experience Black voices, whose palpable influence has transcended generations and will continue to for many more.”
