| This February, Discover Jersey Arts invites audiences across the Garden State to visit JerseyArts.com and discover ways to celebrate Black creativity, influence, and artistic excellence with the launch of its Black History Month Event Guide, available beginning February 1. You Gotta Be Here for Black History Month From laugh-out-loud comedy to soul-stirring music, the Black History Event Month Guide spotlights performances and experiences that honor the voices, stories, and cultural contributions of communities from the African Diaspora—right here in New Jersey. As a statewide program promoting the work of more than 300 arts organizations, Discover Jersey Arts connects residents and visitors to performances, festivals, exhibitions, and cultural moments in every corner of the state. While New Jersey’s remarkable diversity is celebrated year-round, February offers a focused opportunity to uplift Black artists, traditions, and narratives that have shaped—and continue to shape—our shared cultural landscape. “Black history is not a single story or a single month, but February gives us a powerful moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the depth, brilliance, and impact of Black artistry in New Jersey,” said Adam Perle, President & CEO of ArtPride New Jersey. “This guide invites everyone to experience that richness live, in our theaters, concert halls, community spaces, and visual arts.” Featured Performances in the Black History Month Guide The 2026 guide includes hundreds of events statewide, with highlights such as:Tracy MorganComedy / VarietyFebruary 7Count Basie Center for the ArtsOne of comedy’s most recognizable voices brings his signature humor and unmistakable point of view to the Basie stage.Ndlovu Youth ChoirMusicFebruary 28Mayo Performing Arts CenterThis internationally acclaimed choir delivers an electrifying performance blending traditional African music with contemporary sound.Forever Motown: So Good for the SoulMusicFebruary 20Stockton Performing Arts CenterA high-energy tribute celebrating the legendary Motown sound that defined generations and transformed popular music.More to Explore with a FREE myJerseyArts Account Audiences are encouraged to explore the full Black History Month Guide at JerseyArts.com and unlock even more by creating a FREE myJerseyArts account, which offers:Personalized event recommendationsExclusive member-only discountsEasy access to arts experiences across all 21 counties |
| A Year of Celebration Throughout 2026, ArtPride New Jersey will host a series of commemorative events and initiatives, including: 40th Birthday Celebration at the ArtPride Thrive Conference Held in Princeton in June, the bi-annual Thrive Conference is the largest gathering of arts leaders in the state. The 2026 convening will feature a special anniversary celebration honoring past, present, and future arts champions.“40 Years of Arts” Spotify PlaylistA joyful, curated soundtrack of iconic hits, show tunes, and cultural highlights from the past four decades—celebrating the music and moments that shaped New Jersey’s creative spirit.Arts Advocate Appreciation DayA statewide moment dedicated to honoring the advocates, volunteers, supporters, and policymakers who strengthen the arts through their time, passion, and leadership.Additional Anniversary ProgrammingDigital storytelling, legacy highlights, and public engagement opportunities will roll out throughout the year, inviting New Jerseyans to join the celebration. |
| ### ArtPride New Jersey’s Commitment to Equity As part of its dedication to becoming an anti-racist organization, ArtPride New Jersey Foundation continues to champion the voices of historically excluded communities, including Black, Latinx, Asian Pacific Islander, Indigenous, LGBTQ+, and people with disabilities. The foundation recognizes the existence of systemic inequities in New Jersey’s arts and cultural community and is committed to transformative change. Through advocacy, awareness, and grassroots efforts, ArtPride New Jersey seeks to amplify diverse artistic voices and ensure equitable access to the arts for all. |
| ###About Discover Jersey Arts Discover Jersey Arts is a program of ArtPride New Jersey and is dedicated to increasing awareness of and participation in the arts statewide. JerseyArts.com showcases New Jersey’s creative community through feature stories, videos, and podcasts; highlighted events and ticket deals; a comprehensive directory of arts organizations; and other content. Discover Jersey Arts was co-founded and is supported by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, About ArtPride New Jersey The ArtPride New Jersey is a 501(c)(3) organization that promotes the value of the arts to New Jersey’s quality of life, education, and economic vitality through research and a variety of programs and services. For more information about ArtPride New Jersey, visit ArtPrideNJ.org. |
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