The official theme for Black History Month 2026 in the UK is “Honouring Our Communities”. Join us at the Octagon as we celebrate those who hold our communities together and showcase food, art, music and culture from across the diaspora. Our Black History Month events are open for all to attend!

This year we'll be hosting a rice cooking competition to highlight some of Bolton's best culinary talents. Could you be one of our winners?!

Competition Rules:

The deadline to register is 9am, Thursday 1 October. Space is limited - registration will close early if the competition is oversubscribed.

Each dish will be presented anonymously and sampled by the judging panel. Competitors only need to bring a small batch of rice (3 small servings) and will receive £15 on the day as a contribution to their time and resources. All rice dishes should be vegetarian and be careful not to over spice!

There will be two categories:

• Jollof Rice - an African dish made with rice simmered in tomato and pepper sauce
• Rice and Peas - a Caribbean dish made from rice combined with beans and coconut milk

Entries should be dropped off at 12:00pm on Saturday 10th October. A winner will be selected for both categories. 

Prizes:

• Bragging rights!
• 2 free tickets to see a show at the Octagon
• Food and wellness gift box

We've partnered with Bolton Black History Group and Nigerian Community in Bolton to deliver this year's Black History Month events.