Family-friendly Black History Month activities in metro Atlanta

Often regarded as the mecca of the modern civil rights movement and the birthplace of the remarkable Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Atlanta’s African American historical and cultural roots run deep in this city. With countless landmarks and museums, the city has a strong commitment to preserving its civil rights history and provides an in-depth view into the historical challenges many fought to overcome.

If you’re looking for ways to honor Black History Month with your kids, we’ve compiled a list of various family-friendly activities in the Atlanta area to learn more about the valuable contributions and achievements that should be celebrated throughout February and beyond.

Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale - Synchronicity Theatre

If you’re familiar with the beloved children’s book “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters” by John Steptoe, you’re in for a treat with this lovely musical version of such a touching tale. This captivating story of sibling rivalry and character development is written in the style of African folktales. The artistic team at Synchronicity Theatre has created new music for a magical performance that the whole family will love.

Location: Midtown - 1545 Peachtree St. NE #102; Website: synchrotheatre.com; Contact: 404-484-8636; Date: Friday, Jan. 27 - Sunday, Feb. 19; Admission: $25 for adults, $15 for kids ages 3+

Black Magnolias - Historic Oakland Cemetery

For the “Black Magnolias” tour, take the kids on a stroll around Atlanta’s Historic Oakland Cemetery. Following the Civil War and emancipation, African American women began to have access to more educational possibilities and desired to work in occupations other than domestic care. This walking tour highlights their history, lives and labors.

Location: East Atlanta - 248 Oakland Ave. SE; Website: oaklandcemetery.com/black-magnolias; Contact: 404-688-2107; Date: Saturday, Feb. 4; Admission: $12 for adults, $6 for kids

Homeschool Day: African American Month - Atlanta History Center

Explore the Atlanta History Center’s Homeschool Day, where your kids can participate in interactive activities and learn about the impact of African American history and culture. Every third Thursday of the month, the Atlanta History Center hosts this educational event for students and their families through engaging hands-on activities, performances and simulations while learning about all sorts of different historical subjects.

Location: Buckhead - 130 W Paces Ferry Rd. NW; Website: atlantahistorycenter.com; Contact: 404-814-4000; Date: Thursday, Feb. 16; Time: 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; Admission: $15 for adults, $9 for kids, free for ages 3 and under

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Opened in 2014, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights is deeply rooted in the history of Atlanta. The Center’s renowned exhibits include stories about the struggles for human and civil rights, as well as papers and artifacts of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and a powerful lunch counter sit-in simulation. Through this unforgettable educational experience, spend an afternoon here with your children learning about the power of change to make the world a better place for all.

Location: Downtown - 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. NW; Website: civilandhumanrights.org; Contact: 678-999-8990; Admission: $19.99 for adults, $15.99 for kids

Roswell Roots: A Festival of Black History and Culture

Roswell Roots is a month-long festival that celebrates Black History Month with a mission to impact, educate and promote cultural awareness. The festival has something for all ages with a wide variety of historical, artistic and cultural events and performances. Be sure to check out their full list of events here.

Location: Roswell; Website: roswellgov.com/roswell-roots; Contact: 770-641-3705

Black History Month Activities - Dekalb County Public Libraries

At several library branches throughout the county, Dekalb County Public Libraries are hosting a number of Black History Month activities for children all throughout the month of February. You and your kids can test your knowledge of Black history with trivia challenges, watch movies, and pick up craft kits to make bookmarks or posters.

Location: Dekalb County; Website: events.dekalblibrary.org/events; Contact: 404-508-7190

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Location: Downtown - 135 Auburn Ave. NE; Website: apexmuseum.org; Contact: 404-523-2739; Admission: $12 for adults, $7 for kids, free for children 4 and under

Smyrna Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month, the city of Smyrna is hosting a number of events and programs for all ages. Families (and Braves fans) can enjoy a lecture on the legendary Hank Aaron, crafting kits, making a microphone and more.

Location: Smyrna; Website: smyrnaga.gov/black-history-month; Contact: 770-434-6600