Kwanzaa – Operation Unite NY at Hudson Hall

Presented in partnership with Operation Unite NY, come celebrate African-American culture and unity with friends and family. Join them for an afternoon of arts and crafts for children, dancing, drumming, a candle-lighting ceremony, and the sharing of Nguzo Saba; the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

What is Kwanzaa?

Kwanzaa is a holiday observed by many African Americans. It is held on December 26th through January 1st. Doctor Maulana Karenga, Professor at California State University, Long Beach, California, started the celebration in 1966. This is a very informative and interactive program that is great for families wishing to learn about different cultural celebrations.

The seven-day Kwanzaa cultural holiday encourages people to think about their African roots as well as their life in present-day America. Kwanzaa is based on early African festivals and the word means “the first fruit”. The first night of Kwanzaa, Umoja (unity), represents striving for and maintaining unity in the family, community, nation, and race.