Where to Celebrate Kwanzaa in the Triangle
Performances, arts and crafts, drumming, candle lighting and more mark this year's festivities
Photo courtesy of Ailisa/Shutterstock.com
Kwanzaa is a celebration for all people, focusing on family, friends and the fruits of the earth. It's celebrated from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1, with each of the seven days focusing on one of seven core values, or Nguzo Saba. A candle is lit on each day, and on the last day, gifts are exchanged.
- Day 1: Umoja — unity
- Day 2: Kujichagulia — self-determination
- Day 3: Ujima — working together
- Day 4: Ujamaa — supporting each other
- Day 5: Nia — purpose
- Day 6: Kuumba — creativity
- Day 7: Imani — faith
Here are some local celebrations happening around the Triangle. All of these are free, family-friendly events.
25th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration
Photo courtesy of the Town of Cary
Friday, Dec. 27, 2019
11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Avenue, Cary
This year, the annual Kwanzaa Celebration welcomes Dr. Maulana Karenga. Dr. Karenga is the creator of the pan-African cultural holiday Kwanzaa and the Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles) and author of the authoritative text titled "Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Family, Community and Culture." Scheduled performers include The Magic of African Rhythm, Collage Dance Company, African American Dance Ensemble and a presentation by Dr. Maulana Karenga. Scheduled Activities include a vendors' market and Children's Village.
Kwanzaa Celebration
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Photo courtesy of The City of Durham
Monday, Dec. 30, 2019
1-4 p.m.
Holton Career and Resource Center, 301 N. Driver Street, Durham
This family friendly event will include entertainment by local and/or regional artists. The celebration will be held on the fifth day of Kwanzaa and will celebrate the principle of Nia (purpose).
KwanzaaFest
Some of the Members of the African American Dance Ensemble
Photo from the AADE Kwanzaa Fest Facebook page
Monday, Jan. 1, 2020
noon-5:30 p.m.
Durham Armory, 212 Foster St., Durham, NC
Enjoy dancing, food, face paiting, arts and crafts, performances and more. Performances will begin at 2 p.m. Take a food pantry donation for Urban Ministries of Durham in memory of Baba Chuck Davis, the founder of the African American Dance Ensemble.
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