Buffalo's Broadway Market: Black History Month Edition

A Cultural Celebration: The Broadway Market Honors Black History Month

Buffalo's Broadway Market pays tribute to Black History Month with crafts, music and culture

The sign directly outside of the Broadway Market makes the community aware of the activities being held during Black History Month. Photo by SKYLAR BARRONS | ENG 397- Digital/Broadcast Journalism.

Every Saturday during Black History Month, the Broadway Market, located at 999 Broadway in Buffalo, NY, transforms into a cultural hotspot. This event allows local Black-owned businesses, especially to gain recognition and support from those within their community. I had an opportunity to speak with a business owner who was able to provide further insight of this event. 

On Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, the Broadway Market closed out Black History Month with pride as residents gathered to celebrate their rich history. The market was filled with vendors, customers, and other members of the community who indulged in the tastes, smells and sounds of Black History Month. Many danced, and sang to the band, shopped with vendors, and chatted amongst other visitors, adding to the joyful atmosphere. Some attendees wore Dashikis, African print t-shirts, to show further pride in their heritage and history.

The moment you walk into the Broadway Market, it was clear that there was a celebration. There was live music that blared loudly throughout the market, and even on to the surrounding streets. The band, "Larry Salter Soul Orchestra", was the highlight for many, as it set a vibrant and energetic tone; playing many "Old-School" classic songs which include those by Stevie Wonder, and Earth Wind and Fire, all of which are staple artists within the African American community. The video below is a clip of the "Larry Salter Orchestra" performing, as well as the crowd's reaction.

Similarly, the first stand that greets you once walking in is a soul food restaurant. They served dishes such as Mac & Cheese, and Chicken, which are fairly common within the Black community. 

Throughout the market, there were many vendors seated with their own talent, hobby, or craft on display. There were many vendors whose product contained black history hoodies, Dashikis, varieties of African jewelry, African soaps, and other specific items associated with and derived from African Culture. 

Veronica Salter was a vendor at the Broadway Market this past Saturday who shared that she has been vending there for about three years. She crochets all of her own product, and she had some merchandise on sale which were composed of patterns and colors associated with Black History Month. I asked if this is the first time the Broadway Market recognized Black History Month, and she explained how they celebrate each February, and throughout the year as well. Lastly, I asked if she always crochets African colored merchandise, and she said "Always." while nodding her head. Throughout the interview, Ms. Salter showed pride to be a part of this celebration, and in her craft. 

Veronica Salter's vending stand. She displayed various clothing items, some of which representing Black History Month. Photo by SKYLAR BARRONS | ENG 397- Digital/Broadcast Journalism. 

Throughout the afternoon, there was an overwhelming sense of community that will be remembered for years to come. The Broadway Market is a gathering, and shopping place for the Buffalo community year-round, but the ambiance during Black History Month will be something that the community never forgets.

Although Feb. 22 was the last Saturday that the event will take place this year, the Broadway Market recognizes Black History Month every February and will host a similar celebration in 2026. However, if you would like to experience the Broadway Market this Black History Month, there are still a few days left to experience the cultural merchandise that the vendors have for sale, as well as the everlasting sense of community.