Black History Month: What's on?

Get involved

This October, celebrate Black History Month and discover events, activities and opportunities happening across the University and the city.

Black History Month takes place every October in the UK, providing an opportunity to celebrate Black history and culture, recognise the contributions of Black communities  and learn about experiences and stories that have often been overlooked.

The theme for 2026 is ‘Honouring Our Communities’, recognising the everyday contributions of Black people who help communities thrive.

Whether you want to learn more about Black history in Leeds, experience music and culture or meet new people, there are lots of ways to get involved.

Explore Black history with Residence Life

From Monday 5 to Friday 9 October, take part in our Black History Month Scavenger Hunt and explore Black history, culture and community across Leeds.

Throughout the week, you'll be encouraged to discover different locations, including Lyddon Hall and its connections to the Leeds Anti-Slavery Association, Hibiscus Rising near Leeds Dock, the Leeds University Union Liberation Hub and a Black-owned business at Kirkgate Market.

The week also includes an Afro-Fusion Dance Class at LUU. Look out for LUU tokens and food vouchers available at selected stops too!

Later in the month, Black students living in halls can also join our Black Students in Halls Mixer on Tuesday 27 October, offering a relaxed opportunity to meet students from across the Residence Life community.

What's happening at the University and LUU?

There's plenty more happening on campus throughout October!

Leeds University Union has put together a programme of Black History Month events, with opportunities to celebrate culture, learn something new and make connections.

You could head to Culture Fridays taking place every Friday throughout October with food, live DJs, music and student-led cultural events, or attend the Black Futures Conference on 15 October which will bring Black students together with employers, professionals, alumni and networks.

There are also film screenings, a fashion show created by the African Caribbean Society and Fashion for Humanity, and a Culture Festival on 30 October, filling the LUU Precinct with music, food and culture.

With events taking place throughout the month, there are plenty of opportunities to find something that interests you.

Discover Black History Month across Leeds

Black History Month extends beyond campus too! Living in Leeds gives you the opportunity to explore the city's Black history and experience events taking place across its cultural venues and communities.

The city's 2026 programme includes live music, exhibitions, community events, talks and performances.

You can also discover more about the city's past through the Leeds Black History Walk, an initiative launched by Heritage Corner which explores African connections to Leeds and Yorkshire and brings together local and global Black history.

There are some great opportunities to celebrate Black culture, discover more about the history of the place you now call home and get involved with communities across Leeds.