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Celebrating Black History Month on Birmingham’s Canals

We invite everyone to join a vibrant celebration along Birmingham’s historic canals — honouring the contributions, cultures, and stories of Black communities that have helped shape the region’s waterways.

An image looking down the canal towards a bridge with people walking across it

The event will take place on Saturday 25 October at Brindley Place 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 click here.

Last Edited: 8 October 2025

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