February 2026 was a historic moment for the Tri-Municipal region. Residents across Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Parkland County came together to experience Black history, culture, and stories in vibrant, meaningful ways. From the region’s first public civic proclamations to a sold-out storytelling event, the month brought history to life, united community leaders, gave youth a stage to shine, and created a space for reflection, connection, and celebration.
Through the leadership of Africentric Arts, Black Legacy & Cultural Kinship Society Parkland (B.L.A.C.K.S Parkland), and the City of Spruce Grove, Black History Month 2026 became a landmark moment for the region. Together, these organizations united the community around a shared goal: celebrating Black history and culture while highlighting the contributions of Black Canadians in visible and meaningful ways.
The month began on February 2, 2026, when Mayor Jeff Acker officially proclaimed February as Black History Month at Spruce Grove City Hall. The city’s first public recognition of the month brought together youth, families, community leaders, and local organizations from across the Tri-Municipal region and Edmonton. Civic leaders emphasized the importance of inclusion, diversity, and recognizing the contributions of Black Canadians to regional life, while also acknowledging ongoing challenges and reaffirming a commitment to supporting underrepresented communities.
The celebration continued on February 20, 2026, with the sold-out Candlelight Stories event at the Black Box Theatre. Families, youth, and community members from Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Parkland County, and Edmonton filled the theatre for an evening of storytelling, music, drumming, dance, and visual art. The event brought Black history and culture to life, creating an immersive space for learning, reflection, and joy.
Candlelight Stories drew an impressive array of civic and community leaders, highlighting the event’s regional significance. Attendees included Mayor Jeff Acker and Spruce Grove councillors, Councillor Eric Meyer of Stony Plain, David Shepherd, MLA for Edmonton-City Centre and keynote speaker, Lorne Dach, MLA for Edmonton-McClung, and Okwuchi Nnani, Director of Stakeholder Relations for the Office of the Premier of Alberta. Leadership from education and community organizations, including Dr. Lorraine Stewart, Board Chair of Parkland School Division and President of the Public-School Boards’ Association of Alberta, and Samuel Juru of the Edmonton Newcomer Centre, also participated. Local faith leaders, Pastor Rod Charles of Spruce Grove’s Bethel Apostolic Church and Pastor Clive Atkinson of Edmonton’s Higher Ground Tabernacle Ministry, underscored the broad community support for cultural celebration and storytelling.
The event came to life thanks to the generous support of financial and community partners, including the City of Spruce Grove, Town of Stony Plain, Green Bloom Media, Computer Insights, Rise Up Massage & Wellness, That Yoga Place, Khasa Foundation, Spruce Grove Public Library, Raven Wolf Brewing Co. Ltd., Dyronn’s Kitchen, Bethel Apostolic Church of Stony Plain, Arts with Ola and Bolga Boutique.
Candlelight Stories also highlighted the talent of local artists and performers. The Uganda Cultural Group (UCAS/ADPA), Dester Band, pianist Acacia Kabba, singers Chrisly Creations and Maria Charles, and poet Francess Cowan brought energy, creativity, and storytelling to the stage, captivating the audience and making the celebration unforgettable.
Black History Month 2026 intentionally showcased the lasting contributions of Black Canadians to culture, identity, advocacy, business, art, justice, and sport. The events created meaningful opportunities to honour the legacy, achievements, and leadership of Black Canadians who have shaped Alberta and Canada. Their resilience and cultural influence continue to strengthen communities, inspire the next generation, and foster lasting solidarity across the Tri-Municipal region.
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