Black History Month October 2025

From art and history exhibitions, to guided walks and creative writing workshops, Hammersmith & Fulham is full of events suitable for all ages this Black History Month.

Open-air Black History Month King Street Exhibition

Throughout October

This Black History Month we're celebrating with a lamppost banner exhibition running along King Street, Hammersmith.

Figures being recognised include Marcus Garvey, Fanny Eaton and Eartha Kitt alongside present-day local residents and businesses.

The exhibition banners are in place throughout October and free to visit.

Find out more about the open-air exhibition

Events

Check out what's on. Some events may require booking.

Shared Reading celebrating Black Authors – Nourish Hub

Friday 3 and Friday 17 October

Our shared reading group will be talking about the impact of Black heritage and culture within literature and books, celebrating Black History Month.

Shared Reading is a weekly free group for women to connect and socialise using text, books and poems.

Tea and coffee will be available.


'Loyalty to The Crown' by The National Caribbean Monument Charity

Friday 3 October
Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane London W12 7BF

1:30pm: Guest speaker Paul Chambers

Hear from Paul about the forgotten heroes of World War One.

2:30pm: Service to The Crown in 1795 and beyond workshop

Hosted by The National Caribbean Monument Charity, learn all about what service to the crown really meant in the 18th century. This workshop is repeated on Saturday 4 October at 1pm.

These events are open to all. No need to book.


October Guided Walk: Black History Month – Hammersmith BID

Saturday 4 October, 11am to 12 noon
West Kensington tube station

Celebrate the borough's rich history, as we learn about an important Pan-African person, early African settlers into the borough, the Greatest Black Britain and a couple of crafty escapees.


'Loyalty to The Crown' by The National Caribbean Monument Charity

Saturday 4 October
Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane London W12 7BF

11am: A Black woman's experience in the Army talk

Hosted by an army veteran from The National Caribbean Monument Charity, hear about her experiences in the Forces.

3pm: Maureen Dickson author talk and workshop

Hear from Maureen, author of Pilots and Soldiers of the Caribbean, about life in the Armed Forces.

These events are open to all. No need to book.


Tapestry of Black Britons Launch

Wednesday 8 October, 6pm to 8pm
Fulham Palace, Bishop's Avenue London SW6 6EA

Join Fulham Palace for the vibrant launch of Tapestry of Black Britons.

This six-metre-long woven artwork features Birmingham World War Two veteran Prince Albert Jacob's story and aims to elevate Black British history and contribute to a more inclusive British historical narrative.

The evening includes panel discussions with Eddy Smythe (son of World War Two veteran Johnny Smythe) and George Amponsah (Erased), alongside poetry by Jenny Mitchell.


Tapestry of Black Britons Presents Adisa the Verbalizer

Friday 10 October, 4pm to 5:15pm
Fulham Palace, Bishop's Avenue London SW6 6EA

Tapestry of Black Britons presents a workshop by Adisa the Verbalizer at Fulham Court Palace Museum.

Adisa is an internationally acclaimed poet who blends performance and conversation, with a rich tapestry woven from his Afro-Caribbean heritage and the nuances of growing up in the UK.


Managing Our Mental launch event

Friday 10 October
Bechtel House, 245 Hammersmith Road, W6 8PW

This event on World Mental Health Day will introduce new support services, celebrate African and Caribbean heritage, and promote mental health awareness. The evening includes networking, guest speakers, cultural performances, an overview of upcoming projects, and opportunities to connect with local wellbeing resources. Free for residents with advance online registration.

This event has been funded by H&F Council.


Creative writing: Echoes Across Time

Friday 10 October, 12 noon
Macbeth Centre, Macbeth Street, Hammersmith, W6 9JJ

Led by Rasheda Malcolm at Hammersmith's Macbeth Centre.

You'll learn how to write a piece that imagines a conversation between yourself and a historical Black figure who inspires you.

What would you ask them? What advice or stories might they share with you?

Rasheda Malcolm, creative writing tutor at H&F's Macbeth Centre

Roots & Shoots: Three free Community Caribbean Dance Classes with Nzinga Dance Troupe

Saturday 11 October
Westside School, Galena Road, W6 0LT

Open to families, young people (13 to 19), and adults. These sessions use Caribbean dance to bring history to life, celebrate African Caribbean heritage, and promote wellbeing, fitness, and community connection across generations.

Sign up via email: info@nzingadance.com

This event has been funded by H&F Council.


Inside My DNA CIC presents "Where I'm From"

Saturday 11 October, 1pm to 4pm
Shepherds Bush Library, 6 Wood Lane London W12 7BF

"Where I'm From" is part of a multimedia heritage project that uses DNA research and digital mapping to decolonise narratives about African Caribbean ancestry and challenge the question, where are you really from?

By exploring pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial histories, addressing gaps in Black history education and confronting stereotypes rooted in Britain's imperial past. Workshops will provide insights to ancestry search and encourage intergenerational conversations about heritage, with the goal of fostering deeper understanding, empathy, and pride in the UK's multicultural identity.


Sewing workshop with La Modista

Saturday 11 October, 2pm
La Modista Community Sewing Hub, Shepherds Bush Market, Arch 24

A creative 3-hour workshop where you'll turn an old T-shirt or sweatshirt into a patchwork map of Africa using Ankara fabric. Alongside crafting, participants will share family memories and stories about heritage and missing home, blending creativity, sustainability, and cultural connection.

This event has been funded by H&F Council.


Calabash Carnival Club and Mas Band

Saturday 11 October, 7pm
The Kathy Dolan Community Centre, 78 White City Close, W12 7ED

Celebrate Black History Month at the Calabash Carnival Club with an evening of games, quizzes, and dancing! Entry is free for residents (£5 for non-residents), with tasty food and refreshments available for purchase.

This event has been funded by H&F Council.


Hidden Stories: The Ultimate Hammersmith & Fulham Black Heritage Quest with More Curricular CIC

Saturday 11 October, 2pm to 3:30pm and Monday 27 October, 10:30am to 12 noon
Outside Margravine Cemetery, W6 8RP

An interactive event featuring two heritage quests where participants solve location-based clues to uncover hidden Black history stories and build a secret heritage code.

Suitable for all ages, the quests combine historical discovery with fun challenges, community connection, and prizes – perfect for families and groups looking to learn and explore together!

This event has been funded by H&F Council.


Writing to Exhale: Letters of Our Lives with The WILDE Foundation

Sunday 12 October
Nubian Life Resource Centre, 50 Ellerslie Road, London W12 7BW

A Black History Month creative writing workshop for women aged 30 to 70. Participants will explore storytelling through letters, diaries, and journals, using personal histories to reflect, heal, and celebrate the experiences of women from African, Caribbean, Asian, and Arab backgrounds.

This event has been funded by H&F Council.


Tapestry of Black Britons Presents Stephen Bourne

Tuesday 14 October, 1:30 pm to 3:30pm
Fulham Palace, Bishop's Avenue London SW6 6EA

Tapestry of Black Britons presents an afternoon with historian Stephen Bourne on African Caribbean World War Two experiences, followed by a Q&A.


Creative writing: Future Ancestor

Friday 17 October, 12 noon to 4pm
Macbeth Centre, Macbeth Street, W6 9JJ

Led by Rasheda Malcolm at Hammersmith's Macbeth Centre, learn to picture yourself as someone whose story will be remembered in 100 years. What legacy do you want to leave behind?


Dance of the Diaspora with DanceWest

Saturday 18 October
Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, King Street, W6 0QL

Dance of the Diaspora is a free Black History Month event by DanceWest, inviting everyone to experience and learn about West African, Caribbean, and Hip Hop dance styles.

Each session is led by an expert, blending movement with history and cultural stories, and celebrating the global influence of African heritage through dance.

This event has been funded by H&F Council.


Black History & Heritage: Stories, Sounds & Strength with Henrietta Media CIC

Saturday 18 October, 1pm
Fulham United Reformed Church Hall, 472-480 Fulham Palace Road, SW6 6HY

A 4-hour celebration featuring local Black-owned businesses, live music, poetry, storytelling, traditional food, and a "Flashback Photos" wall for sharing community memories.

Highlights will be filmed and shared online, with volunteers co-presenting the day – honouring Black heritage, fostering skills, and building community pride for H&F.

This event has been funded by H&F Council.


Grandma Knows Best: Family fun day

Saturday 18 October, 2pm to 5pm
Swakeley's pub, 174 Goldhawk Road, W12 8HJ

Join us for a vibrant, free community event dedicated to honouring the past, celebrating the present, and building a united future. This gathering is more than a celebration – it's a space for fun, learning, engagement, and connection.

Through meaningful conversations, interactive activities, and cultural showcases, we aim to highlight the richness of Black history and culture while fostering a sense of unity, diversity, and inclusion across our community.

Come together with friends, family, and neighbours to share in the spirit of resilience, joy, and togetherness. Let's create lasting memories as we celebrate heritage, embrace differences, and continue building a stronger, more inclusive community for all. With fun, food, facts and activities.

This event is funded by H&F Council.

Jump & Vibe with JUMP LND

Friday 24 October, 5pm
Earls Court Community Hub, W14 9NF

A celebration of community, culture, and connection! The party starts with a DJ welcoming everyone, followed by an intergenerational Double Dutch skipping session where you can join in or cheer from the comfy seating area set up for our older guests. Sip on tea or coffee, grab a fresh trim from the local Sketch barber (here for one hour only!), and let your creativity flow by adding your thoughts on joy to the giant mural wall.

Explore and support local Black artists at our mini art market, then dig into delicious Caribbean and soul food while grooving to music and mingling with friends. To top it all off, enjoy live performances from talented local singers. It's a day packed with skipping, music, art, food, and pure joy - everyone's invited to jump in!

This event is funded by H&F Council.


Graffiti Portraits Workshop

Wednesday 22 October, 3.30pm
Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AT

Join us at Hammersmith Library to celebrate the amazing artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. We'll create portraits of cats, dinosaurs, and all sorts of incredible things using his colourful graffiti style, complete with crowns, bold lines and powerful words! For ages 6+

Spaces are limited, so please book your free place by emailing HammersmithLibrary@lbhf.gov.uk


Queen Caroline Estate half-term fun

27 to 31 October
Queen Caroline Estate TRA Hall, W6 9EG

A free, week-long celebration packed with art exhibitions, inspiring stories from local entrepreneurs, traditional music and instruments, delicious cultural food stalls, and heritage displays – all coming together to honour Black History and community spirit!

This event is funded by H&F Council.


African Drumming Workshop

Monday 27 October, 11am
Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AT

Join African Drumming specialists, Ancestral Hands, for an interactive drumming workshop! Participants explore traditional drumming techniques, learn the cultural stories behind the beats, and experience the joy of creating music together. The workshops are designed for all skill levels, blending hands-on practice with the rich history of rhythm as a language of memory, community, and expression! For ages 3+

Spaces are limited, so please book your free place by emailing HammersmithLibrary@lbhf.gov.uk


Storytelling & Drumming: An Interactive Cultural Adventure

Monday 27 October, 2.30pm
Fulham Library, Fulham Road, SW6 5NXT

Join children's author and storyteller Kamapala Chukwuka, and drummer H 'Uriah for an afternoon of interactive storytelling, African drumming, and creative fun! We'll bring kindness, courage and culture to life with lively rhythms and audience participation. Each child will also take home a handmade bracelet as a special keepsake! For ages 4 to 10 years.

Spaces are limited, so please book your free place by emailing FulhamLibrary@lbhf.gov.uk


Community Supper: Celebrating Black Heritage

Wednesday 29 October, 6pm to 8pm
Nourish Hub, 1 St Ann's Road, Unit A, W11 4SS

A pay-what-you-can, vibrant 3-course meal inspired by African and Caribbean cuisines.


African Drumming Workshop

Wednesday 29 October, 11am
Shepherds Bush Library, Wood Lane, W12 7BF

Join African Drumming specialists, Ancestral Hands, for an interactive drumming workshop! Participants explore traditional drumming techniques, learn the cultural stories behind the beats, and experience the joy of creating music together. The workshops are designed for all skill levels, blending hands-on practice with the rich history of rhythm as a language of memory, community, and expression! For ages 3+.

Spaces are limited, so please book your free place by emailing ShepherdsBushLibrary@lbhf.gov.uk or call 020 8753 3842


Storytelling & Drumming: An Interactive Cultural Adventure

Thursday 30 October, 2.30pm
Hammersmith Library, Shepherds Bush Road, W6 7AT

Join children's author and storyteller Kamapala Chukwuka, and drummer H 'Uriah for an afternoon of interactive storytelling, African drumming, and creative fun! We'll bring kindness, courage and culture to life with lively rhythms and audience participation. Each child will also take home a handmade bracelet as a special keepsake! For ages 4 to 10 years

Spaces are limited, so please book your free place by emailing HammersmithLibrary@lbhf.gov.uk


Lytton Estate Community Day

Friday 31 October
Lytton Estate Residents Hall, W14 8TE

BQ Promotions is hosting an interactive event featuring Black talent through storytelling, poetry, drumming, and singing. The evening aims to connect generations, celebrate achievements, and highlight Black history in education and the local community, with music, inspiring stories, and a focus on cultural heritage.

This event is funded by H&F Council.


Celebrating Black Joy: A Cultural Arts & Stories Event

Saturday 8 November, 2pm
Emlyn Garden Community Hall, W12 9DQ

This vibrant afternoon brings together people of all ages to honour Black culture, creativity, and resilience. Dive into a hands-on 3D Hair Art workshop exploring heritage and identity, enjoy delicious cultural food and music, and feel the rhythm in an energetic drumming session. Listen and share in a story-sharing circle where residents pass down personal tales and wisdom across generations. It's a safe, welcoming space to connect, celebrate identity, and uplift Black voices – preserving heritage and inspiring pride for the future!

This event is funded by H&F Council.


Not Your Superwoman – Bush Theatre

Until 1 November

In the aftermath of the death of their matriarch, Joyce and her daughter Erica struggle with what to do next. She was the glue that held everything together, so what now?


100 Found Objects by Yinka Ilori

Daily
Fulham Pier

British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori explores Fulham's cultural landscape through a selection of found objects and hidden treasures. The plants featured in the artwork acknowledge Fulham's global connections and history of colonial trade in Africa.


H&F Black History Walking Trails

Daily

Explore H&F's Black history at your own pace with our four self-led walking trails. Pick a route and explore a whole new side of the borough. Stops include the birthplace of Esther Bruce and Mahatma Gandhi's former W14 student flat.


Past events

See details of events that have now passed

'Loyalty to The Crown' by The National Caribbean Monument Charity – Shepherds Bush Library

Monday 29 September

11.30am: Guest speaker Paul Chambers
Hear about the forgotten heroes of World War One.

2.30pm: Service to The Crown in 1795 and beyond workshop
Hosted by The National Caribbean Monument Charity, learn all about what service to the crown really meant in the 18th century.

Tuesday 30 September

3pm: Jay Morgan Hyrons author talk
Left widowed by the Falklands War, Jay Morgan Hyrons will talk about the widows left behind, the subject of her book The Falklands Fallen: A Dedication to Those Still on Patrol.

These events are open to all. No need to book.

'Loyalty to The Crown' by The National Caribbean Monument Charity – Shepherds Bush Library

Wednesday 1 October

10.30am: Britain's Armed Forces link to Windrush workshop
Hosted by The National Caribbean Monument Charity, learn all about Deputy Lord Lieutenant Martin Levermore MBE and his experience in the Army.
This workshop is repeated at 2pm, Thursday 2 October.

1.30pm: Leslie Aldridge author talk
In A Medic's Journey to the Falklands author and poet Leslie Aldridge shares his experiences as a nurse during the Falklands War. Hear about the impact it had on his life.
This workshop is repeated at 5.30pm, Thursday 2 October.

2.30pm: Guest speaker Joel Nicholls
Hear about Joel's grandparents who were part of the Windrush generation and his uncle who served in the Army.

These events are open to all. No need to book.

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