The 2026 Virginia Black History Month Gala
Presented by the Virginia Black History Month Association (VaBHMA)
The Virginia Black History Month Association proudly presents the 2026 Virginia Black History Month Gala, taking place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. EST at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel in Arlington, Virginia.
This signature event honors Black history, excellence, and community leadership through an evening of reflection, celebration, and connection.
2026 Keynote Speaker
We are honored to welcome Emmy-nominated actor Kadeem Hardison as our 2026 keynote speaker. Best known for his iconic role as the brilliant “math wiz” on A Different World, Kadeem Hardison portrayed the lived experience of students attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)—a role that helped shape national conversations around Black education and culture.
His distinguished career includes groundbreaking work in film and television, including White Men Can’t Jump, The Sixth Man, Teenage Bounty Hunters, Love Is, Moonhaven, and more.
Black History Month Weekend Events
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Black Health Fair – Friday, February 27, 2026 | 4:00 p.m.
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Relationship Seminar – Friday, February 27, 2026 | 6:00 p.m.
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Online Black Vendor Showcase – Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 5:00 p.m.
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Hotel Black Vendor Showcase – Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 5:00 p.m.
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VIP Social with Keynote Speaker – Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 5:00 p.m.
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Virginia Black History Month Gala (In-Person) – Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 6:00 p.m.
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Virginia Black History Month Gala (Online) – Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 6:00 p.m.
Hotel Accommodations
Guests may reserve rooms at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel using the official event link:
https://book.passkey.com/event/51154984/owner/3446869/home
Learn More
For full event details, updates, and registration information, visit:
www.vabhma.org
In His Service,
Bill Jones
President, Virginia Black History Month Association
(540) 907-1857
✉️ president@vabhma.com