City News Blog: Celebrate Culture & Community at Lakeland’s Black History Festival at Jackson Park
LAKELAND, FL (February 17, 2026) - On Saturday, February 21, 2026, the City of Lakeland will kick off Black History Month celebrations with a Black History Festival at Jackson Park and the Coleman-Bush Building, located at 1104 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in Lakeland. This free event which begins at 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., is open to all ages, and promises to be an unforgettable day filled with exciting live performances, cultural enrichment, and family-friendly fun.
This year’s Black History Festival will showcase dynamic local rhythmic dancers and inspirational spoken word artists throughout the day. Community members will also have the opportunity to stroll through the park to explore artisan vendors, enjoy an assortment of savory food truck options, and check out a classic car exhibition. There will also be educational and entertaining interactive children’s activities.
The celebration continues inside the historic Coleman-Bush Building, where visitors can experience a powerful permanent history exhibit showcasing the story of Lakeland’s Black community and its pioneers. The exhibit will feature an interactive touchscreen display that highlights the remarkable contributions and lasting impact of African Americans in Lakeland. While attending the Black History Festival, we invite you to step inside the Coleman-Bush Building to explore the contents of a 25-year-old time capsule and help commemorate the building’s 50-year anniversary.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have engaged citizens and civic leaders who collaborate with our team to ensure the history of our neighborhoods is honored and celebrated. We’re excited to join the community in commemorating Black History Month at this year’s festival and reflecting on the rich legacy preserved within the Coleman-Bush Building,” shares Bob Donahay, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts.
Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of African Americans and recognize vital contributions to United States history. Founded by historian Carter G. Woodson, this month-long observance has been officially recognized by the U.S. government since 1975, with Canada and the United Kingdom also dedicating time to this important celebration.
For more information, visit LakelandGov.net/ColemanBush or call 863-834-3350 ext. 1. Vendors interested in participating in this event should email ColemanBush@Lakelandgov.net. Vendor space is limited.
Don’t miss this powerful celebration of culture, history, and community. We look forward to seeing you there.
Contacts
Larry Little
Director
Communications
City of Lakeland
863-394-3942
Larry.Little@lakelandgov.net
Jamin Smith
Digital Content Creator
City of Lakeland
Jamin.Smith@lakelandGov.net
About Lakeland
The City of Lakeland was incorporated in January 1885 and has grown to become one of the largest inland communities in Florida. With a current population fast approaching 130,000 Lakeland continues to grow. It has been designated a Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area by the US Census Bureau for over 30 years. With tourist attractions and gulf beaches only an hour away, Lakeland continues to capitalize on its ideal central Florida location along the I-4 corridor. The City owns and operates Lakeland Electric, the third largest publicly owned utility in Florida, and it was one of the first to offer power in the Sunshine State in 1889.
For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please visit www.lakelandgov.net. Community members are also invited to follow the City on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Vimeo, Snapchat, and Nextdoor by searching lakelandgov.
For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please visit LakelandGov.net. Citizens are also invited to follow the City on social media.
