Trace the whole narrative of Decatur’s Black history, from the deep roots of its earliest days to the brave, unsung acts of our local Civil Rights leaders. We’re committed to sharing the whole story and celebrating the vibrant culture, creativity, and resilience of today’s artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Here are some great ways to celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth:
Black History Walking Tours
Put on your walking shoes for a free, self-guided tour anytime or join the Beacon Hill Black Alliance for a powerful community journey on Saturday February 28.
Self-Guided Tour
Visit 12 points of interest around Decatur that highlight the contributions of our Black community members, including the permanent Beacon Community Exhibit. The MLK historical marker and timeline at the corner of W. Trinity Place and McDonough Street tells the story about the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s impactful time in Decatur.
Black History Self-Guided Walking Tour Guide
Guided Beacon Hill Tour
Saturday, February 28, Noon to 2 pm
As part of the 2026 Black History Month theme, “One Hundred Years of Black History Commemorations,” The Beacon Hill Black Alliance invites you to join a powerful journey through Beacon (also known as Beacon Hill or the Bottom), once a thriving and tight‑knit Black neighborhood in downtown Decatur. Guided by former residents, descendants, and youth‑scholars, participants will visit and mark important sites throughout the neighborhood, including former homes, schools, churches, and local businesses. The tour will center stories that illuminate Beacon Hill’s enduring legacy and the ongoing efforts to preserve the land and its history. This event is open to all ages, and begins at the Beacon Municipal Complex, 420 West Trinity Place. Food will be provided. Ticketed.
Tickets are FREE for Beacon descendants and City Schools of Decatur students. Simply RSVP at liberationlearninglab@gmail.com.
Explore Public Art
See public art created by Black artists. “What Sonia Said” by Ellex Swavoni stands prominently on the site of Decatur’s historic Beacon Hill community. The sculpture is a tribute to the strength, heroism, and resilience of Black communities, and is a part of the Art For The People Project, a collaboration with Beacon Hill Black Alliance for Human Rights.
The Decatur Box Project installation at W. Trinity and North McDonough by Fabian Williams features social activist Reverend William Barber. Look up for “Signs of Solidarity” around Decatur High School. The signs were commissioned in 2020 in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. Spot Secret Door “Luna’s Rays” by Brea T’Ann around Oakhurst Recreation Center. All three projects are organized by Decatur Arts Alliance.
Traveling on MARTA? The Decatur Avondale Station features two stand-out installations: “The Journey We Traveled” by Derrick Phillips, Sr. and “Transfer” by James Wright, Sr. Both works are part of the Black Artists Matter collaboration between Decatur Arts Alliance and MARTA Artbound.
Celebrate At An Event
Attend the DeKalb History Center’s 18th Annual Black History Month celebration, “Stepping Into Tradition: The Divine Nine.” The ticketed event is Thursday, February 26 at 11 am at the DeKalb History Center.
Support Black-Owned Businesses
Shop at our locally beloved black-owned businesses in Decatur. Browse for new reads for youngsters at Brave and Kind Books. Owner Bunnie Hilliard stocks the shelves with diverse stories that inspire bravery and kindness everyday. Get your glow on with lush, green beauty at Olive Branch Wellness. Owner Ty Jenkins focuses on all-natural, vegan, and organic skincare that will make your skin oh-so-happy.
Find a new ‘fit. Bleu Hanger features bold prints and flirty silhouettes. Sole Play delivers the latest in streetwear: limited edition sneakers, trendy graphic tees, and cutting-edge athletic wear. Squash Blossom Boutique’s owner Lisa Bob curates artistic, whimsical women’s fashion. And every Saturday in February a different black-owned business is popping up inside the shop from 4-6 pm.
Time for food? Try Teriyaki Madness or Playa Bowls. Pick up a sweet treat for dessert at Diamond Dust Cupcakes.
