One of the most beautiful representations of African heritage during the holiday season is Kwanzaa, a seven-day African American and Pan-African celebration intended to reconnect members of the African diaspora to their cultural roots.
Kwanzaa is based on seven principles known as the nguzo saba. They are Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith).
On each night of Kwanzaa, which begins Dec. 26, the day after Christmas, a candle is lit to observe each principle. The colors of the candles — red, black and green — symbolize the liberation of Pan-African people.
Thanks to Atlanta’s rich Black culture and population, there are several options for those looking to join the Afrocentric celebration.
This list will be updated with additional events through the 2024 Kwanzaa season.
2024 Umoja Kwanzaa Celebration
In addition to a candle lighting and ceremonial unity circle, there’ll be African drumming and dancing, a market of artisan items, activities for kids and refreshments for all. It’s free to attend, but they request RSVPs.
3-7 p.m. Dec. 26. The ArtsXchange, 2148 Newnan St., East Point. (678)927-5844. artsxchange.org.
Kujichagulia
Activist, artist and poet Kenneth Zakee and keynote speaker Dr. Daniel Black, whose May commencement speech at Clark Atlanta University went viral, will be part of this free and festive occasion of drumming, dancing and music.
5-9 p.m. Dec. 27. The Shrine of the Black Madonna, 944 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd. SW, Atlanta. Email ayanacredell@gmail.com for more info.
Gwinnett Kwanzaa Celebration: Ujima and Ujamaa
The Gwinnett County Black Chamber of Commerce is presenting this three-hour, family-friendly event, which promises to build on the premise of Black unity through cultural games and activities, guest speakers, prize giveaways and Kwanzaa-inspired food from Moses-Ragsdale Kitchen, Serbea Living African Restaurant and Camrose Creative Services.
12:30-4 p.m., Dec. 28. Gwinnett County Public Library - Duluth Branch, 3180 Main St., Duluth. eventbrite.com
UUMAN Kwanzaa Celebration
This educational event at Unitarian Universalist Metro Atlanta North will feature a brief historical overview of Kwanzaa’s practices and symbols, as well as light bites, nonalcoholic beverages and activities for children.
7-8:30 p.m. Dec. 28. Unitarian Universalist Metro Atlanta North, 11420 Crabapple Road, Roswell. (770)992-3949. uuman.org
Kwanzaa Freshii 2.0
Aiming to honor the uniqueness of African tradition without losing the “freshii” (translated from Kiswahili as “cool” in English) of Black culture, this celebration spotlights youth and will include remarks by Clark Atlanta Univeresity educator Dr. Chike Akua and performances from Giwayen Mata — the “all-sistah” dance, percussion and vocal ensemble. While reserved seating is sold out, general seating is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
3-5:30 p.m. Dec. 30. Drew Charter School, Yates Campus Theater, 300 Eva Davis Blvd., Atlanta. giwayenmata.org
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