El Paso’s Black history stretches back more than a century, beginning in the late 1800s as Black families arrived with the expansion of the railroads, the U.S. military and early commercial development in the borderland. Buffalo Soldiers were stationed at Fort Bliss in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, while Black entrepreneurs, educators and faith leaders established neighborhoods and institutions during the early 1900s despite segregation and discriminatory policies that shaped much of life in Texas at the time.
Throughout the first half of the 20th century, Black El Pasoans played pivotal roles in local and national history. Henry O. Flipper, the first Black graduate of West Point, served in the region in the 1880s, while Dr. Lawrence Nixon, a Fort Bliss sergeant, successfully challenged Texas’ all-white Democratic primary system in the 1920s and 1930s, a case that helped advance voting rights nationwide. By the mid-20th century, Black residents had built enduring community hubs such as the McCall neighborhood and organizations that fostered civic engagement, education and cultural expression in El Paso.
READ MORE: The rich history of El Paso’s African American community
That history continues to inform the present.
During Black History Month 2026, El Paso will host a slate of events that honor both historic figures and contemporary leaders through art exhibitions, educational tours, fashion showcases and community celebrations. The events scheduled throughout February offer residents opportunities to reflect on the city’s Black past, recognize ongoing contributions and support Black-led organizations and artists shaping El Paso today.
Below is a roundup of Black History Month events taking place across the region this year.
2026 El Paso Black Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Gala
The El Paso Black Hall of Fame will host its second annual induction ceremony honoring 15 individuals and one organization for community impact, professional achievement and sustained contributions to the region. The event will also recognize legacy leaders posthumously, with the city of El Paso’s first Black fire chief, Jonathan P. Killings, receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award.
- When: 6-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7 (doors open 5:30 p.m.)
- Where: Starlight Event Center, 6650 Continental Drive
- Cost: $100 (tables available)
- Information: blackhof.com
MORE EVENTS: Experience El Paso Opera’s ‘La Bohème,’ explore border design at Rubin Center
El Paso Black Arts Association Gallery and Silent Auction
The El Paso Black Arts Association will host its second annual gallery exhibition and silent auction in recognition of Black History Month, showcasing works by African American artists from the El Paso region. Artwork on display during the opening showcase will be available for purchase through a silent auction, with a portion of proceeds supporting the organization’s community-focused mission.
- When: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1 (exhibition on view through Feb. 21)
- Where: International Museum of Art, 1211 Montana Ave.
- Cost: Free
- Information: internationalmuseumofart.org
African Heritage Week Celebration
A community kickoff event at the Mexican American Cultural Center marks the start of African Heritage Week, featuring guest speakers, live performances and a fashion show highlighting traditional and contemporary designs inspired by African culture. The program includes remarks from Miriam Nabasirye Kiwummulo, founder of Rescue Women’s Foundation; Janace Griffin of the El Paso Black Arts Association; and Alexandra Peek of Peek’s Council, with a focus on culture, creativity and community empowerment.
- When: 3-6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6
- Where: Mexican American Cultural Center, 201 E. Franklin Ave.
- Cost: Free
- Information: epmacc.org
African Heritage Week Art Reception
An opening reception celebrating African Heritage Week at the El Paso Museum of History will feature a fashion show highlighting traditional African clothing and jewelry, along with Afrobeat and traditional African music. The event includes an international collaboration showcasing designs from Uganda through the Rescue Women’s Foundation, as well as a joint fashion display with the El Paso Black Arts Association that blends African and El Pasoan influences.
- When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7
- Where: El Paso Museum of History, 510 N. Santa Fe St.
- Cost: Free
- Information: epmuseumofhistory.org
African Heritage Week Fashion Show
An evening fashion show celebrating African Heritage Week, featuring collections by Black and African designers in a nightlife setting at Old Sheepdog Brewery. The event includes opportunities to meet designers and models, learn about local and global African communities, and shop African jewelry.
- When: 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7
- Where: Old Sheepdog Brewery, 3900 Rosa Ave.
- Cost: Free
- Information: oldsheepdogbrewery.com
3rd Annual Black History Tour
A daylong community tour highlighting the lives and legacies of prominent Black historical figures connected to El Paso, including Estine Davis, Henry O. Flipper and Dr. Lawrence Nixon. The event is organized by the McCall Neighborhood Center and the Eastside-Central Coalition.
- When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7
- Where: Tour meets at McCall Neighborhood Center, 3231 Wyoming Ave.
- Cost: Free
- Information: mccallcenter.org
SEE ALSO: El Paso icon Estine Davis dies at 92
Black Excellence: Rooted in Resilience and Rising in Excellence
A Black History Month program celebrating the legacy, achievements and impact of El Paso’s Black community. The event will feature guest speakers, community awards, cultural performances and recognition of local leaders, entrepreneurs and creatives, along with food vendors and community resources.
- When: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15
- Where: Cortez Ballroom, 310 N. Mesa St.
- Cost: $40
- Information: Black Excellence El Paso Instagram
SEE ALSO: Books with El Paso ties you can read for Black History Month
Mini Black Book Fair and Artist Celebration of Black History
A Black History Month event highlighting Black authors, artists and storytellers in El Paso, featuring a mini book fair, live performances and multi-generational storytelling. The program includes author meet-and-greets, spoken word, music and visual art, along with children’s book giveaways connected to national Black Children’s Book Week initiatives.
- When: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21
- Where: El Paso Community College Administrative Services Center, 9050 Viscount Blvd.
- Cost: $5
- Information: blackelpasovoice.com
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