Christmas and Hanukkah might be the big celebrations in December, but they aren’t the only ones that offer fun for families. The cold and snowy final month of the year also features other religious and historical holidays, alongside cultural ones, like Kwanzaa.
During this holiday, which runs Dec. 26-Jan. 1 every year, Americans of African descent from all over the country gather to celebrate African heritage.
This includes learning about the seven principles of Kwanzaa — unity, self-determination, work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.
Are you looking for Kwanzaa events for kids in Detroit and nearby? Here are some of our favorite happenings in 2024.
Updated Nov. 15, 2025: This article was reviewed and updated by the Metro Parent editorial team to reflect new event dates, refreshed links and the latest information available for families.
Annual Motor City Kwanza Kinara Lighting Ceremony
Dec. 26, 2025
- Address: Campus Martius Park, Detroit
- Cost: Free
See the annual Motor City Kwanza Kinara Lighting Ceremony in Campus Martius Park, the unity candle lighting at sunset and hear a keynote speaker. RSVP required.
5th Annual Kwanzaa & Kulture Community Celebration
Dec. 27, 2025
- Address: Chiquita Jackson Enterprise, 2785 East Grand Blvd., Detroit
- Cost: Tickets start around $7
This community event has regional vendors, family-friendly cultural events and an atmosphere that reflects the essence of Kwanzaa and Black culture. People who come are invited to dance, listen to music, do crafts, eat from food vendors and talk to local business owners and artists. It’s a day to honor tradition, community, connection and enterprise in Detroit’s thriving Black-owned companies.
Kwanzaa Celebration at the Detroit Public Library
Dec. 27, 2025
- Address: 5201 Woodward Ave., Detroit
- Cost: Free
Join this library event for families where people of any age can do art and crafts and learn about Kwanzaa’s seven values through stories and acts that celebrate African heritage.
“Kwanzaa with Mama Jahra” at the The Henry Ford
Dec. 27, 2205
- Address: 20900 Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn
- Cost: Kids $27, Adult $36
Families can learn about the seven Kwanzaa principles through stories and music, then do crafts in the Museum Plaza and see the museum’s exhibits and bring the whole family!
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