For seven days people celebrate the rich African culture with the holiday, Kwanzaa, and from Dec. 26, 2019, until Jan. 1, 2020, families have the opportunity to rejoice at the annual Kwanzaa Celebration at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit.
A candle burns each day representing the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Thursday, Dec. 26 is the first principle Umoja, meaning to celebrate unity in families, communities, nations and races. At the museum, enjoy spoken word, poetry, performances and a traditional African drum and dance to demonstrate unity.
Friday, Dec. 27 is the celebration of independence and self-determination with Kujichagulia. Drummers, dancers, poets and singers will perform
Participate on Saturday, Dec. 28 in acknowledging Ujima, all about responsibility and collective work, and keeping the community together solving problems like family. Engage in a discussion about community and watch a performance with drums and dancing.
Ujamaa celebrates supporting businesses and cooperative economics. On Sunday, Dec. 29, take part in a community discussion about “Cooperative Economics” with speaker Aisha Shule.
The fifth principle Nia is about purpose and Monday, Dec. 30 looks into the development of the community and acknowledging traditional greatness. Community performances and cultural presentations will mark the occasion.
Tuesday, Dec. 31 brings in creativity with Kuumba. To celebrate, enjoy a series of performances at the museum.
The Kwanzaa Celebration event ends on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020 with the seventh and final principle Imani, meaning faith.
Admission is free and all of the events are open to the public. The event runs 6-9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2-5 p.m. Sunday and 3-6 p.m. Monday-Wednesday. Times for specific performances within the event vary.
For more information on the Kwanzaa Celebration at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit – or details on other family fun things to do this weekend – visit the Metro Parent calendar.
This post was originally published in 2016 and is updated regularly.
