Join Black History Month celebrations on Birmingham’s canals

This Black History Month, Canal & River Trust and Brindleyplace are extending invitations to join a vibrant celebration along Birmingham’s historic canals.

Organisers say the celebrations will honour the contributions, cultures, and stories of Black communities that have helped shape the region’s waterways.

The event will take place on Saturday, 25 October at Brindleyplace in central Birmingham, featuring live music, storytelling, community art, spoken word performances, guided heritage walks, and bell boating sessions.

The day also includes family-friendly workshops, food stalls celebrating African and Caribbean cuisine, and opportunities to engage with local artists, historians, and community voices.

Amat Saeed, from Canal & River Trust, said: “Our canals have long been places where different communities meet, work, and share their stories. This Black History Month, we’re proud to celebrate the diversity that has shaped Birmingham and its waterways — recognising the heritage, resilience, and creativity of Black communities past and present.

“Birmingham’s canals are part of our shared history. By bringing people together on and off the water, we’re creating a space to honour that history and to inspire future generations to connect with our historic canals.”

The events will take place from 11am to 5pm. Entry is free and open to everyone. To book your place on a walking or bell boating activity visit HERE.

For more information on the Canal & River Trust including how you can donate money or volunteer with them to support their work visit their website.