Inaugural Black History Month celebration set in Vernon
Published 1:00 pm Friday, February 6, 2026
February is Black History Month, and this year an inaugural celebration is taking place in Vernon.
Africans of the Okanagan and Vernon Immigrant Services are hosting Vernon’s first Black History Month celebration. The evening brings together music, dance, food and powerful storytelling to honour Black history, culture and community.
The celebration takes place at Paddlewheel Hall on Okanagan Landing Road from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15.
The event will feature DJ Masterdon, Afrokanagan Live Band, and Fusion Dance Club, creating a musical atmosphere filled with Afro-inspired rhythms, movement, and joy. Guests will also enjoy Afro-Caribbean food, offering a taste of their cultures.
A highlight of the evening will be a community panel of Black speakers who have lived in Canada for different lengths of time, from newcomers to long-time residents. Through their personal stories, panelists will explore themes of identity, belonging, and life in Canada, offering insight into the diversity and resilience of Black communities in the Okanagan and beyond.
“This event is about celebrating Black history while also creating space for people to hear and understand the lived experiences of Black community members,” said Sam Abiodun, founder of Africans of the Okanagan and organizer of the event. “We want people to leave feeling inspired, connected, and more aware of the richness and diversity within our community.”
The event is open to the public and welcomes people of all backgrounds to come together in celebration, learning, and community building.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for children ages two to 12. Families of two adults and two children get in for $50. Tickets to the event can be purchased through the Vernon and District Immigrant and Community Services Society website vdicss.org.
