Happy Black History Month! Denver Summit FC is proud to celebrate the achievements, history, and enduring legacy of Black Americans throughout February and all year long.
Black History Month serves as a vital time to honor the triumphs and history of Black Americans throughout U.S. history. From the pioneers who first settled in the Floyd Hill and Dearfield communities to the activists who made Five Points the “Harlem of the West,” Black Coloradans have been central to the spirit and progress of our state.
At Denver Summit FC, we recognize that soccer is a global game shaped by the brilliance of Black athletes who have broken barriers and redefined excellence on the pitch. We believe in fostering a club culture where every player feels the strength of those who came before them. This month, we invite our players, families, and fans to join us in elevating the voices and businesses that make the Denver community a more vibrant and equitable place to live and play.
Celebrate with us by supporting local Black-owned businesses, attending cultural events, and engaging with organizations that champion Black excellence!
CELEBRATE: Events
- Throughout February 2026: Black American West Museum & Heritage Center Tours: Visit the historic home of Dr. Justina Ford, Denver’s first Black female doctor, to learn about Black cowboys, pioneers, and the deep roots of African Americans in the Rockies.
- Throughout February 2026: The Museum for Black Girls: Open Wednesday–Sunday, Where: 500 16th Street Mall at the Pavilions. Winner of the Mayor’s Excellence in Innovation Award in 2024, this intimate — and fun — experiential museum on the city’s 16th Street Mall celebrates and shares the contributions of Black women throughout history and currently in ways both sincere and playful. Head for the second floor at the Pavilions for a mix of original artworks, curated exhibitions about heritage, and virtual and actual interactive displays.
- February 19, 2026, 6PM: “Black in the Centennial State” Lecture at History Colorado: An evening discussion exploring the specific impact of Black leaders on Colorado’s political and social landscape from the 1800s to today.
- Feb. 21, 2026, 12PM: Jazz Roots in Five Points: Where: Spangalang Brewery, Welton Street Cafe, Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center and other venues Denver’s Five Points Neighborhood remains tenaciously connected with the history of Black culture in Denver. In the mid-1900s on the “Welton Strip” — the Casino Ballroom, Sonny’s Lounge, Rossonian Hotel to shout out a few — played both destination and welcoming respite for jazz greats Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington, Miles Davis and Art Blakley, Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong, among others.
- February 28, 2026, 7:30PM: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble: Close out the month with a world-class performance from this legendary Denver dance institution, celebrating the African Diaspora through movement.
FUTURE EVENTS:
- July 10–12, 2026: Colorado Black Arts Festival: Where: City Park
Colorado Black Arts Festival proudly presents its 38th annual celebration of African American art and culture. Enjoy a Colorado experience like no other in historic Denver City Park West. - June 21, 2026: Juneteenth Music Festival: Where: Five Points
One of the nation’s largest Juneteenth celebrations, look for a parade, live performances, art, vendors and fun for the entire family.
SUPPORT: Local Black-owned Businesses
- Fifth Coffee House: A community staple in Five Points perfect for a post-practice caffeine fix or team meeting.
- Welton Street Cafe: Famous for its incredible Caribbean and Southern soul food—a must-visit for authentic Denver flavor.
- TeaLee’s Tea House & Bookstore: An Afrocentric tea house offering a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of literature.
- Bar Helix: A sophisticated lounge in RiNo owned by hospitality expert Kendra Anderson, known for great vibes and innovative cocktails.
- Matter: A Black-owned design studio and bookstore downtown that focuses on typography, design, and social justice.
- Novel Strand Brewing Co: A craft brewery in the Baker neighborhood focused on unique yeast strains and high-quality brews.
- Mimosas: A vibrant brunch spot in Five Points that brings modern flair to classic comfort dishes.
- Konjo Ethiopian Food: Found at Edgewater Public Market, serving delicious and authentic Ethiopian cuisine.
- Urban Sanctuary: A wellness space focused on yoga and healing.
- Spangalang Brewery: Fashioned in the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance, Spangalang is a Black-owned brewery merging the craft beer world with modern urban culture in Historic Five Points, Denver, Colorado.
- NOLA Voodoo Tavern: Nestled in the historic Cole neighborhood near downtown Denver, this New Orleans–inspired bar brings the soul of the Crescent City to Colorado. Owned by New Orleans native Henry Batiste, the space is rooted in family tradition, featuring homemade recipes passed down from his mother and grandmother.
- Whittier Cafe: Denver’s only African espresso bar. All of their coffee comes from various African Nations.
GIVE: Organizations & Resources
- The Urban League of Metropolitan Denver: An organization dedicated to helping African Americans and others in underserved communities achieve their highest human potential and secure economic self-reliance.
- Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center: Located in Five Points, this center provides a space for community organizing, health equity advocacy, and cultural celebration.
- Black Resilience Foundation: A local fund dedicated to providing immediate and direct financial support to Black Denverites to foster long-term stability and growth.
- GirlTrek Denver: Part of a national movement, this local chapter encourages Black women and girls to use walking as a practical step toward healthy lives and community healing.
- Black Pride Colorado: Black Pride Colorado, a program through YouthSeen, was created to celebrate, liberate and engage our Black LGBTQIA2+ community by building resilience, honor and preserving our history and culture.
- Apprentice of Peace Youth Organization (AOPYO): Focuses on leadership, arts, and wellness for Denver youth, using principles of martial arts and mindfulness to reduce violence and increase potential.
- Jack and Jill of America, Denver Chapter: A membership organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders through leadership development and community service.