By: Cherise Brandell

Menlo Park celebrates Black History Month in February with programs throughout the City.

The Menlo Park Senior Center celebrates Black History Month with a Movie Series on Wednesdays throughout February at 12:30. Come by to enjoy an afternoon of movies, complete with freshly popped popcorn. Free! 

The Senior Center will also be hosting its 18th Annual Black History Month Luncheon and Gospel Festival on Friday, Feb. 24 from 11:30-1. This annual event showcases local poets, dancers and gospel singers, among artists who will also be presenting some of their work. The $8 event fee for all ages includes traditional home-cooked lunch and live entertainment. Festive attire is requested. 

Also at the Senior Center, the annual Hear Our Stories, an open microphone event focused on bringing history to life, will take place this year on Thursday, Feb. 16, at noon. This interactive, storytelling program enables local African-American seniors to share life stories with others and reflect on how far we have come. Lunch fee of $2.50 for seniors, and $5 for non-senior guests. The Menlo Park Senior Center is located at 110 Terminal Avenue in the Belle Haven neighborhood.

Menlo Park’s child care programs at Menlo Children's Center, teen programs and the Belle Haven Child Development Center will also celebrate Black History Month throughout February with special songs, games, stories and foods. Unfortunately, the public is not invited to these exciting and education activities!