By Nicholas Ibarra | OBSERVER Staff Writer

All listed events, and more, can be viewed online on The OBSERVER’s community events calendar at SacObserver.com. Be sure to submit your events two weeks in advance to have the chance to be featured on the list.

  1. 2nd Annual 2025 Faith in Health Luncheon Collaborative – 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10, at Sierra Health Foundation, 1321 Garden Highway. Be part of an inspiring in-person gathering hosted by the Saving Our Legacy: African Americans for Smoke-Free Safe Places (SOL Project). This annual event brings together faith leaders, public health advocates and community partners to tackle pressing challenges and innovative solutions for creating smoke-free, healthier communities. Free and open to the public. Attendees are welcome to register.
  2. Justice Next Cohort Application – Deadline to apply is Saturday, March 1, via this link. Are you a Black or brown young adult looking to build a brighter future? The Justice Next Cohort is designed to provide diverse emerging leaders with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to fight against systemic injustices and be agents of change. If you live in Sacramento County and care about how the criminal justice system or the climate crisis impacts your community, start your application today to be considered.
  3. ’Yes! We’re Open’ Screening & Panel Discussion – 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, at KVIE, Mary Stuart Rogers Foundation Studio, 2030 W. El Camino Ave., Suite 100. Join PBS KVIE for a screening of “Yes! We’re Open.” A panel discussion with the featured business owners follows the screening. “Yes! We’re Open” celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners in Northern California. Explore the inspiring story of Chef Q introducing “modern comfort food” to the Sacramento region. Meet Dina Santos, who turned their passion for wine into a thriving business, building their own winery and vineyard from the ground up. And discover how Marichal Brown and his brother are carrying on the legacy of their late father at their barber shop. Free seating is limited.
  4. SACRAMENTO SHOWCASE – 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, location emailed upon registration. Join this exclusive event showcasing revolutionary educational services that are transforming people’s lives, all from the comfort of their own homes or anywhere around the world. Discover innovative solutions and strategies that are changing the game in finance, empowering individuals to take control of their financial future like never before. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore cutting-edge services that are making a real difference in people’s financial situations everywhere. Free, attendees should register.
  5. Black History Month Walking Tour of Oak Park’s 40 Acres – Noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays this month at the Guild Theater. Explore the rich history of this vibrant community on foot, led by Sacramento’s own comedian Dru Burks, who will share the history of how the cultural mecca now known as the 40 Acres Art and Cultural Complex, came to be. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the past and present of Oak Park, learning about the influential figures who have shaped its identity. Get ready to walk, listen and absorb the heritage of this historic neighborhood. Free, donations accepted.
  6. Black in Biotech Panel – 4:30-6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, webinar. Highlighting the achievements and experiences of Black professionals shaping the biotech industry. This event features inspiring discussions with trailblazing scientists and leaders, exploring career pathways, industry trends and the importance of diversity in STEM. Join us to celebrate Black excellence, gain valuable insights and connect with a community committed to fostering inclusion and innovation in biotechnology. Free, meeting link will be shared upon registration.
  7. WEDNESDAY NITE LIVE W/AJ KELLEY – 8-10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, at Self Designs Art Gallery, 708 K St. Enjoy live music presented by local artists AJ Kelley and Amirah Shantel. Tickets from $10.
  8. Author Talk featuring Victoria Christopher Murray – 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at Underground Books. Known for her hit novels like “Lust, Wrath, Greed,” and “Pride,” which were adapted into popular Lifetime movies presented by TD Jakes, Victoria discusses her latest book, “Harlem Rhapsody.” Don’t miss the chance to hear about her journey as an author, the inspiration behind “Harlem Rhapsody” and the success of her unforgettable adaptations. Free, attendees must register.
  9. West Sacramento Community Center Black History Month Art Show – 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at Gallery 1075 at West Sacramento Community Center. Discover the art and hear the voices of Black artists in our community making art and art history. Experience powerful works by local artists, enjoy light refreshments and engage in stirring conversation. Featured artists include Delgreta Brown, Shawntay Gorman, Sara Scott, Elizabeth Hall and other regional artists as they discuss their art, their lives and how they transform each other. Free and open to the public.
  10. ArtMix: Sweethearts – 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at Crocker Art Museum. Grab your valentine or pal-entine, or come looking for love at ArtMix: Sweethearts⁠. DIY valentines, local chocolate tastings, and speed-dating sprints fill out the evening’s bouquet. Enjoy burlesque and cabaret-style performances and join the cupid shuffle to the beats of DJ Hustle at this ArtMix made for love. Tickets are $25.
  11. Black Parent Classroom Observation Orientation – 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, via Zoom. Orientation is for parents participating in Black Parent Involvement Day on Tuesday, Feb. 18. It equips you with tools for effective classroom observations, guiding you on what to look for, how to engage with teachers and ways to support your child’s learning. Attending will deepen your understanding of classroom dynamics and strategies for collaborating with educators, enhancing your child’s academic success. The session also fosters community among parents, allowing you to share experiences and promote educational empowerment. Free, attendees must register.
  12. ‘Malcolm X’ – 6:30-10 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at Crest Theatre. Experience the biographical epic of the controversial and influential Black Nationalist leader, played by Denzel Washington. Tickets from $11.
  13. Zuzu African Acrobats – 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at Sacramento State, University Union Ballroom. Hailing from Tanzania, the Zuzu African Acrobats will dazzle Sac State with a high-energy performance that celebrates the beauty of Tanzanian culture in honor of Black History Month. Known for their incredible gravity-defying stunts, the group incorporates traditional African drumming, vibrant dances and songs into their breathtaking act, showcasing the rich history of the Bantu people. Famous for appearances on “America’s Got Talent” and other global stages, the Zuzu Acrobats embody a captivating blend of strength, grace and cultural storytelling. Free and open to the public.
  14. The Love Theory. Writing to Heal. An Empowerment Workshop. – 5-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, at The SAYS Center, 950 Fulton Ave. Suite 225. Using guided exercises and reflective prompts, participants will explore self-expression, release limiting beliefs, and celebrate personal growth. The experience provides a safe, nurturing environment to cultivate deeper self-love, empowering women to embrace their authentic selves and honor their unique journeys. It’s a space to pause, reflect, and celebrate the beauty of who you truly are, fostering empowerment and connection with others on similar paths. Donations accepted for admission.
  15. Be Love Holistic Presents: Yin Yoga & Sound Healing, The Black Love Edition – 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, at Copper House Boutique, 731 L St. Hosted by Dr. Teah, founder of Be Love Holistic and facilitated by Kirsten Johnson, founder of In Her Voices. This co-ed session for Black/African-identified people is intended to create a safe and loving space that reminds Black men and women about the urgency of our unification and healing, our shared responsibility for each other’s well-being and the power we hold together. They will use movement and sound to release limiting thoughts and beliefs, and open to receive abundant love, support and divine blessings. Donations being accepted for admission.
  16. ‘Fences’ – 7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sundays, Feb. 14-March 2, at Celebration Arts. Kicking off this season is August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece. Set against the backdrop of 1950s Pittsburgh, this powerful drama explores the strained relationship between a father and his son as they grapple with dreams deferred and the weight of societal expectations. Local playwright and director Anthony D’Juan returns to Celebration Arts to helm this production. Tickets from $15.
  17. Chef Tom’s Valentine’s Day dining experience – 7-10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, at Homecoming at Creekside, 4800 Kokomo Drive. A delightful dining experience with Chef Tom, featuring a six-course cuisine, fun games and laughter-filled comedy presented by RicoDaGreat. Bring your loved one and celebrate a night of love together. The menu includes strawberry steak salad, crawfish and shrimp gumbo, stuffed chicken, lobster mac and cheese, pork belly with topped asparagus and peach crunch cheesecake bites. Tickets are $215.
  18. Love Notes: A ‘Love Jones’ Experience – 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, at the Guild Theater. Step into a night inspired by the iconic film “Love Jones” – where love, passion and connection take center stage. This intimate and stylish celebration is designed to make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable. The evening includes fresh flowers for purchase, chocolate covered strawberries, drinks and romantic ambiance. Free, attendees must register as space is limited.
  19. ‘Love Is In The Air’ Jazz Concert with Carol Manson & Chet Chwalik – 7-9 p.m. Friday, Feb.14, at Twin Lotus Thai, 8345 Folsom Blvd. Suite119. Vocalists Carol Manson and Chet Chwalik set the mood for Valentine’s Day weekend with popular, traditional jazz-romantic songs that have stood the test of time. This romantic and enchanting experience blends smooth melodies with the heartfelt emotions of love accompanied by the Blue Skies Band. Food will be available for purchase. Tickets are $28.
  20. Romance in Rhythm: A Valentine’s Jazz Celebration with the Vivian Lee Quartet – 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, at the Sofia Tsakopoulos Center for the Arts. Known for her sultry voice and heartfelt interpretations, Vivian Lee will serenade you with timeless jazz standards and romantic ballads, creating the perfect ambiance for a night of passion and elegance. Accompanied by her stellar quartet and the brilliant improvisations of Jacam Manricks, this concert promises lush melodies, captivating rhythms and unforgettable performances. From classics like “My Funny Valentine” to swinging love songs and tender bossa novas, the evening will be a musical journey through love in all its forms. Tickets from $30.
  21. Black History Month Daylong Retreat: Reclaiming Our Joy – 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, location shared upon registration. Grounded in African-centered traditions, participants will immerse themselves in healing practices including meditation, African dance and community storytelling. They will also nourish their physical bodies with a delicious and nourishing meal. It is hoped that this sacred space leaves you feeling uplifted, connected, empowered and restored. You are asked to bring a blanket, yoga mat, pillow, journal/pen and a photo of an ancestor or something that represents an ancestor. Tickets are $108.
  22. BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION: REFLECTIONS FROM THE PAST – 4:30-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Samuel and Bonnie Pannell Community Center. This event consists of a large variety of downhome soul food such as fried fish, chicken, cakes, pies, cornbread and much more. Dinner is served promptly at 4:30 p.m. There will be plenty of family-oriented live entertainment. Tickets from $23.
  23. Afro-Ball – 4-10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at Sacramento Academic and Vocational Academy, 5400 Power Inn Road. This special Valentine’s Day event is designed to inspire and educate our youth about the importance of focusing on self-love, personal growth and making positive life choices. But the night isn’t just about learning – it’s a celebration of culture, unity and joy. With delicious food, vibrant music and a lively dance floor, Afro-Ball is the perfect place for young people to have fun and feel inspired. Tickets are $8.
  24. TRIBUTE TO THE LATE FRANKIE BEVERLY! ALL-BLACK ATTIRE AGE 35 & OVER! – 6 p.m.-midnight Saturday, Feb. 15, at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sacramento. Get ready for a night of live music presented by Dirti-Ryce featuring Deron, a tribute to Frankie Beverly. This event is for folks aged 35+ and there is an all-Black outfit requirement. Tickets are $65.
  25. Black History Month Art Show 2025 – 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16, at the Old Sugar Mill, 35265 Willow Ave., Clarksburg. Founded by Rachelle Wiggins and Barbara Range in 2019, the art show is the fastest-growing Black History Month event in Northern California. Each year, it draws wine enthusiasts from all over to experience a vibrant showcase of art, culture, food, music and more. Free and open to the public.