October is Black History Month in the United Kingdom, and many councils, universities and museums run talks, tours and workshops on African history and culture. For Nigerians and Yoruba families in the diaspora, it is a useful time to share heritage with children and friends. This article lists events found in the Queen Mary University of London programme and neighbouring borough listings that fall in the last days of the month. Details can change and some events are restricted, so check each organiser’s page before you travel.
Events Still to Come
| Date | Event | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday 24 October, 6pm to 7:30pm | How Civilisations Remember: Twelve Technologies of African Knowledge (talk) | Stratford Library, Newham |
| Sunday 25 October, 2:30pm to 3:30pm | British Museum tour: African Kingdoms, including objects from Benin | British Museum, London (meet at the Great Court Information Desk) |
| Wednesdays to 28 October, 12pm | AFBE-UK Black History Month talks on African civilisations (free) | Online |
| Wednesday 28 October, 12pm to 1pm | Afro-Brazilian Rhythms workshop with Mestre Sanhaço | Mile End, London (registration was due by 22 October) |
Some listings are aimed at students and staff of the host university, while the British Museum tour is bookable by the public through the museum’s website. Always confirm eligibility and booking rules first.
Why These Events Matter to Yoruba Families
The Benin objects in museum collections connect to the wider story of West Africa’s kingdoms, and the Afro-Brazilian workshop touches a history that Yoruba readers will recognise: enslaved Yoruba people shaped religion, music and food in Brazil. Read more in Yoruba in Brazil and Cuba and the Atlantic slave trade and the Yoruba diaspora.
Ways to Celebrate Yoruba Heritage at Home
- Teach children simple greetings from our Yoruba phrases for parents and kids.
- Cook a Yoruba dish together; start with 12 classic Yoruba dishes.
- Wear aso ebi or traditional attire to a school or community event; see aso ebi meaning and etiquette.
- Ask your local library or school to feature African authors and languages, and use our diaspora guide as a starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Black History Month in the UK?
It is observed every October.
Are these events free?
Several are free, but some need tickets or registration. Check each organiser’s page.
Where can I learn Yoruba afterwards?
Start with the Learn Yoruba hub.
