The Queen Mary is proud to announce Roots & Rhythm: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future, an inaugural Black History Month celebration taking place on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at the iconic ship. For the first time ever, The Queen Mary will bring the vibrant culture of Leimert Park to life, transforming it into a hub celebrating the profound influence of Black artistry and storytelling. From visual arts to spoken word performances, guests will experience the creativity and resilience that define Black culture in Los Angeles and beyond.
“We invite everyone to come together to celebrate the roots, rhythms, and stories that define and shape Long Beach’s diverse community,” said Steve Caloca, Managing Director of the Queen Mary. “This event reflects our deep commitment to honoring the rich history of the past while elevating the artists, innovators, and changemakers who are building the future.”
As part of the ongoing Queen Mary Cultural Events Series, this immersive event will highlight the history, art, and cultural significance of Leimert Park, a landmark of African American creativity and activism in Los Angeles. Guests will have the opportunity to experience live performances, including spoken word, music, and dance, that showcase both traditional and contemporary expressions of Black artistry on board the historic ocean liner. Attendees can also visit local vendors and artisans offering handcrafted goods, artwork, and products from Black-owned businesses, further enriching the cultural experience.
In addition to artistic showcases, Roots & Rhythm: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future will foster community dialogue through discussions and storytelling sessions that explore the lasting impact of African American heritage and its influence on culture today. More details, including a full lineup of performers and featured artists, will be announced soon.
Caloca adds, “This celebration is a powerful opportunity to honor the creativity, resilience, and rich contributions of the African American community while fostering connection and unity.”
Those interested in participating as vendors or performing artists are encouraged to reach out to Hayley Myles at Hayley.Myles@queenmary.com for more information.
Roots & Rhythm: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future is 11am PST to 6pm PST. Tickets are $15 per person for ages 3 and up. For more information on the Queen Mary, Roots & Rhythm: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future, upcoming events, programming, and more visit www.queenmary.com/seasonal-events.htm and queenmary.com/whatsondeck, or connect with us on social @TheQueenMary.
Located in the Port of Long Beach, the Queen Mary features a rich maritime history, authentic Art Deco décor, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Long Beach city skyline. At the time of her maiden voyage in May of 1936, she was considered the grandest ocean liner ever built.
There is always something happening at the Queen Mary, be sure to visit queenmary.com/whatsondeck to learn about all their upcoming programming. The Queen Mary’s signature restaurants include the Promenade Café and Chelsea Chowder House & Bar, as well as a weekly Royal Sunday Brunch served in the ship’s Grand Salon. History buffs and visitors of all ages can explore the ship’s museum, tours, and exhibits. The Queen Mary features event space in 14 remarkable Art Deco salons and award winning staff to create innovative banquets for groups ranging from 10 to 5,000. The Queen Mary boasts 250 staterooms including nine full suites. For more information or for reservations, see www.queenmary.com or call(888) 217-1153. The Queen Mary is located at 1126 Queens Highway in Long Beach, California.