A reception will be held at city hall on Feb. 19 to celebrate African American History Month. Winners of the African American Achievements essay contest for elementary school students will read their work and receive awards. A sampling of soul food will be served.

The event will be hosted by the Gaithersburg Multicultural Affairs Committee.

The mayor of Gaithersburg and the City Council will present a proclamation at a meeting after the reception. The reception starts at 6 p.m. and the meeting starts at 7:30 p.m.

Those who plan to attend should RSVP to Doris Stokes at dstokes@gaithersburg.gov by Feb. 11.