The city of Santa Monica and the Black Santa Monica Community Group will host the 11th annual Black History Greens Festival on Saturday, Feb. 28, at Virginia Avenue Park.
The free event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is part of the city's Black History Month celebration. The theme for 2026 is "Boots on the Ground," honoring community and culture.
Attendees can expect three greens cooking demonstrations with local chefs, family activities including book readings and giveaways, performances, vendors and wellness information. KJLH radio's Arron "BOBO" Arnell will return for a second year as master of ceremonies, with DJ Dense spinning throughout the event.
Festivities will also include music, dance and singing performances, including a return appearance from Nichelle Monroe, and line dance instruction from Caleb Crump. Traditional soul food dish tastings will be provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health and Virginia Avenue Park. The Santa Monica Public Library will offer book giveaways, and a Kids Zone will feature crafts and a trivia game with prizes. A variety of resource booths and vendors will also be on hand.
Guests are encouraged to bring picnic blankets or lawn chairs. Walking and biking to the event are encouraged. Virginia Avenue Park is served by Big Blue Bus Line 7.
For more information, call 310-458-8688 or visit santamonica.gov.