TRENTON, N.J., February 1, 2024 – The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism (NJTT) announced a series of events, tours, and exhibitions across the state to celebrate Black History Month. Residents and visitors can explore the contributions of African Americans to the arts.
“This year’s Black History Month theme of ‘African Americans and the Arts’ provides the perfect opportunity for the Garden State to celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black artists throughout our history,” said Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way. “The Black community in New Jersey has long been shaping art, history, and culture statewide, with roots that trace back to the mid-1600s. This influence can be seen in New Jersey’s art museums and galleries, which welcome visitors from across the globe to experience their unique collections and exhibitions this February.”
The arts in New Jersey reflect its diverse nine-million-resident population by displaying collections from nearly every cultural heritage and nationality, including the African American community. The arts sector provided nearly 57,000 jobs in the state in 2022, representing 36% of total tourism industry employment.
“In addition to special programming showcasing Black artists, New Jersey’s Black Heritage Trail allows both locals and visitors alike to discover sites of historical importance in every region of the state,” said NJTT Executive Director Jeff Vasser. “Highlighting New Jersey’s unique Black history and heritage, as well as some of its best Black-owned businesses, the Trail features a diverse range of things to experience.”
Highlighted activities include:
**Northern Region (Newark, Montclair)**
- **Newark Museum of Art**: Home to the Arts of Global Africa Gallery with a collection of 4,000 pieces ranging from masks and sculptures to jewelry and photography.
- **Montclair History Center**: Offering a guided house tour on February 18 at Crane House & Historic YWCA exploring 200 years of Black history.
**Black-Owned Businesses**:
- **Blueprint Café**, **Burger Walla**, **The Weekend Spot**, **Source of Knowledge Bookstore**, **Akwaaba Gallery**, **Bella Nail and Beauty Bar**, **The Brown Mill Atelier**.
**Central Region (Trenton, Stoutsburg, Princeton)**
- **New Jersey State Museum**: Hosting Discovering Grant Castner Exhibit.
- **Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum**: Telling stories from trans-Atlantic slave trade to present day.
- Dr. Daisy Century's performance on February 9 & 10 showcasing Phillis Wheatley.
**Black-Owned Businesses**:
- **1911 Smoke House Barbeque**, **Bamboo Grill Jamaican restaurant**, **Dylilah’s Sweet Sin’Sation**.
**Southern Region (Cape May)**
- Harriet Tubman Museum: Highlighting Cape May's role in the Underground Railroad.
- Underground Railroad Trolley Tour with Cape May MAC.
- Carroll Gallery hosting Line in the Sand exhibit.
**Black-Owned Businesses**:
- Freda’s Café known for crab cakes.
