Black history and culture celebrated in Wandsworth
Published: Thursday, September 25, 2025
October is Black History Month, and events will be held in Wandsworth as part of the council’s year-round celebration, Black History 365.
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This year Wandsworth is the London Borough of Culture, and Black history, culture and identity are part of our extensive programme of projects and events to help all the borough’s residents and communities feel happier, healthier and more connected through art and culture.
Deputy Council Leader Kemi Akinola said: "We established Black History 365 three years ago because we believe Black history is British history and needs to be recognised all year round. However in October we shine a special spotlight on Black people, businesses and heritage.
“This year I’m delighted we can make it even bigger as part of our year as London Borough of Culture, with more events and projects than ever before.”
Throughout October, Wandsworth African Caribbean Food Month will include cooking workshops, author talks, supper clubs, pop-up restaurants, community cookouts and live cooking demonstrations, plus activities in schools and family hubs and library storytelling sessions for children and young people.
The month kicks off at a launch event which will feature an ‘In-Conversation’ style interview with Wandsworth local Ainsley Harriott, where the TV chef will share how his Caribbean heritage has shaped his passion for cooking. There will also be a panel discussion moderated by food critic/journalist Jimi Famurewa featuring some of the pioneering chefs who are redefining and elevating African Caribbean cuisine in the UK. There will also be the chance to enjoy samples of African Caribbean dishes prepared by local businesses.
Local people are asked to submit their favourite family recipes for our African Caribbean Heritage Recipe Book. Look out for submission boxes in libraries and the Town Hall Marble Hall reception, or email them to the Wandsworth Heritage Service.
Other Black History 365 highlights include:
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Rhythms of Unity celebrating African and Caribbean heritage through song and community.
- Poetry and spoken word project Echoes of the Windrush
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Ghana on a Plate at the Devas Club
- We are Somebody exhibition at Wandsworth Town Library
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Age UK Wandsworth Coffee Morning featuring African Caribbean Snacks
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Irie Rhythms Caribbean Dance and Music Celebration
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Written in the Records exploring the Black presence in Putney’s past
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Flavours of Heritage – an Africa and Caribbean Tooting food tour
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Caribbean-ish Supper Club at St Mary’s Church, Putney
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Overcome: A Pointe Black Production. A ballet showcasing key civil rights moments
Wandsworth libraries also have an extensive programme of events reflecting this year’s Black History Month theme of Standing Firm in Power and Pride, including author talks, workshops, exhibitions and community events. See all events