Where to Celebrate Kwanzaa in the Triangle

Performances, arts and crafts, drumming, candle lighting and more mark this year's festivities

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. 

24th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration

Friday, Dec. 28, 2018
11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Avenue, Cary
The theme for this year's celebration is "Working to Build A Kind and Just World" and will feature performances by a percussionist, a jazz ensemble, a dance company, a vocalist, a piano and flute duo. The event will also include a vendor market and children's village, which includes hands-on arts and crafts activities from 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The traditional Kwanzaa ceremony with libation, candle lighting, and Harambee Circle will occur at 1 p.m. 

Kwanzaa Celebration

Photo courtesy of The City of Durham

Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018
2-5 p.m.
Holton Career and Resource Center, 301 N. Driver Street, Durham
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 2018

Monday, Jan. 1, 2019
noon-5:30 p.m.
Durham Armory, 212 Foster St., Durham, NC
Enjoy games, arts and crafts, a drumming class, and Durham's Fire Department at the Children's Village, which begins at 12:30 p.m. Performances take place 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.