ST. PETERSBURG — The Woodson African American Museum of Floridahas kept its promise of community-centered programming with a slate of engaging events that celebrate local culture, history, and creative expression.
Healthy Cooking & Community Connections
In partnership with Healthy St. Pete, The Woodson African American Museum of Florida continues to promote wellness through monthly cooking demonstrations at the Enoch D. Davis Center.
A recently featured dish was Stuffed collard greens, prepared by Chef Garrett, who guided participants through fresh ingredients, healthy techniques, and flavorful tips they can recreate at home. Held monthly, the hands-on demonstrations welcome both seasoned cooks and beginners, blending cultural tradition with practical nutrition education for the community.
Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall
Each February, the City of St. Petersburg joins The Woodson African American Museum of Florida for a meaningful Black History Month tradition, the raising of Dr. Woodson’s flag at St. Petersburg City Hall.
The annual ceremony serves as a visible reminder of Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s enduring legacy and the importance of preserving African American history. Community leaders, supporters, and residents gather as the flag is lifted in tribute to the father of Black History Month and the cultural contributions of African Americans locally and nationwide.
While the flag flew over City Hall for the month of February, the message resonates far beyond: Black History Matters 365 days a year.
Poetry in Motion with Lyn Davis
The Woodson’s Let’s Get Lit: Poetry Sit-In welcomed local poet Lyn Davis for an evening of words, rhythms, and reflection at the President Barack Obama Main Library. Attendees celebrated Black History Month through readings, discussion of revolutionary Black poets, and audience-created verses, continuing a beloved monthly literary series.
Knowledge & Fun: Black History Trivia Night
Black History Month also brought out trivia enthusiasts on Feb. 9 for a spirited Black History Trivia Night at the Enoch D. Davis Center. Local history buffs formed teams to test their knowledge of African American achievements and narratives in a lively evening of friendly competition. The event quickly reached capacity, underscoring strong community interest.
One of the evening’s special guests was Kathleen Z. Warren, local legacy coach and author of Family Legacy Planning, who shared insights into the importance of intergenerational learning and remembering Black history beyond the classroom. Warren’s work focuses on helping families build intentional legacy practices, a natural complement to the celebration of knowledge, culture, and community connection.
Prizes were awarded to top performers, and laughter, learning, and unity filled the room as participants celebrated not only trivia mastery, but also the rich stories that continue to shape our community.
Collard Greens Take Center Stage
A memorable highlight was The Woodson African American Museum of Florida’s hosting of the 2026 Collard Green Cook-Off as part of the annual Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival. Each year, The Woodson proudly presents this highly anticipated competition, where culinary excellence and hometown pride collide for the coveted title of “Best Collard Greens.”
Contestants competed in two categories – Meat and Meatless, serving up tradition, creativity, and bold flavor.
Meat Category Winners: Cameron Sweat, took the crown. Tijuana Baker and Michael Van Schoonhoven were runner ups.
Meatless Category Winners: Regina Keys-Moore was the winner, with Marlon Thompson, and Mary Threatt celebrating 2nd and 3rd places.
More than a cook-off, the event remains a celebration of heritage, fellowship, and the enduring cultural significance of a beloved staple in the community.
At the Feet of the Elders: Black History Month Edition
The Woodson African American Museum of Florida’s signature oral history series, At the Feet of the Elders, returned for a powerful Black History Month edition, bringing together generations for reflection and dialogue.
This special panel featured Councilmember Deborah Figgs-Sanders, Commissioner René Flowers, and Mayor Kenneth T. Welch, who shared personal stories about the evolution of St. Petersburg, the challenges they’ve navigated, and the triumphs that have helped move the community forward. The discussion was facilitated by award-winning journalist Saundra Weathers of Spectrum Bay News 9.
Listeners of all ages attended, including Journeys In Journalism students from Melrose Elementary and John Hopkins Middle School, gaining firsthand insight into the city’s history through the lived experiences of local trailblazers. The Woodson extends heartfelt gratitude to these leaders for their service and their continued commitment to ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.
Vyrle Davis Student Achievement Awards
The Woodson became the 2026 host of the 9th annual Vyrle Davis Student Achievement Awards at Gibbs High School.
Named for pioneering educator Vyrle Davis, the awards celebrated students who carry forward his legacy of perseverance, leadership, and service, The honored scholars were recognized for maintaining a 4.0 GPA reflecting the exceptional excellence of our local scholars. These awards align perfectly with The Woodson’s mission to support and empower and celebrate the next generation.
