Celebrating Black History Month during a pandemic can present indoor challenges. So here’s a guide on how to celebrate outdoors.
Many museums are closed or have limited entry, and let’s face it, sometimes scheduling advance tickets is not part of the plan when your child’s behavior changes hourly. Luckily, we live in an area where Black history surrounds us!
Throw on your coats and pack a thermostat filled with hot cocoa as you take your family on an outside stroll to revel in the marvel of Black history.
1. Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Learn about Frederick Douglass, a former slave, writer, statesman, and abolitionist. Visit the grounds of his estate, including the Growlery, while soaking in a spectacular view of the Washington, DC area.
Location: 1411 W Street SE, Washington, DC
Hours: Fridays and Saturdays 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, check website for updates
2. Arlington National Cemetery
The cemetery is an outdoor place filled with stories of slavery, segregation, and freedom. Celebrate the legacy of African Americans who sacrificed it all, such as Major Alexander T. Augusta the first black surgeon in the U.S. Army, and Lee “Buddy” Archer a Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.
Learn about the history of section 27 labeled “contrabands” where approximately 3,000 African Americans who were once slaves are buried. Also visit Freedman’s Village, one of the first communities of former slaves in Arlington.
To prepare for your visit and create additional entertainment for your kids, print the Children’s Activity Packet and Education Guide.
Location: 1 Memorial Avenue, Arlington, VA
Hours: Daily 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, check website for updates
3. Black Lives Matter Plaza
Take a stroll through Black Lives Matter (BLM) plaza while reflecting on the 2020 protests and the ongoing fight for racial, social, and economic equality in America.
Location: 16th Street between K and H streets NW, Washington, DC
4. Howard Theatre Walk of Fame
Celebrate the contributions of African Americans to music. Admire plaques of iconic African Americans, such as Marvin Gaye, James Brown, and Ella Fitzgerald. The Walk of Fame honors 15 musicians for two blocks.
Location: 7th and S Streets NW, Washington, DC
5. The National Mall
Walk or bike around the National Mall while sharing stories about civil rights demonstrations, such as the historic 1963 March on Washington and 1995 Million Man March. Stop at the Lincoln Memorial and stand where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech engraved on the steps of the memorial. End the tour with a visit to the MLK Memorial itself and learn about MLK’s call for service.
Location: National Mall, Washington, DC
Hours: 24 hours daily, check website for updates
If you see me frolicking outside with my family at one of these sites, please wave hello! Leave a comment with your favorite outdoor places to celebrate Black history.
Great recommendations! I am definitely going to visit some of these places during my upcoming trip to DC.
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