Where to Celebrate Kwanzaa in Westchester and Beyond
Kwanzaa is a week-long African American celebration of culture, unity, social values, and family. Celebrated from December 26th-January 1st, the holiday includes seven principles such as Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith). Additionally, the celebration of Kwanzaa includes gift giving, a family feast, and community events. Read on to learn more about some places in Westchester and the surrounding area where you can celebrate with your kids.
Psst…Check out these Holiday Toy Donations and Give Back Opportunities in Westchester
Friday, December 6th, from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Pre-Kwanzaa Gospel Community Concert
The Pre-Kwanzaa Gospel Community Concert, hosted by Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano in collaboration with the African American Advisory Board and the Yonkers Public Library, is an event designed to celebrate culture and community spirit. Families can look forward to an evening filled with uplifting gospel performances and the opportunity to connect with neighbors and friends. This concert not only showcases powerful music but also promotes the rich traditions of Kwanzaa. Yonkers Riverfront Library (Auditorium), 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers, NY 10701
From November 18th to December 18th
Pre-Kwanzaa Children’s Book Drive
The Pre-Kwanzaa Children’s Book Drive is currently underway, running from November 18th to December 18th. This initiative collects new children’s books to promote literacy and celebrate cultural heritage in the community. Drop-off locations for the book drive are available at all three Yonkers Public Library branches. Yonkers Public Libraries
Sunday, December 29th, from 2:30 pm-6:30 pm
2024 Kwanzaa Celebration
Join Sisters to Sisters International for a pre-Kwanzaa celebration in New Rochelle. Additionally, the event includes dinner, dancing, and shopping. Tickets are $15 for children and $30 for adults. Hotel NoMa, 1 Radisson Plaza, New Rochelle, NY 10801.
Saturday, December 21st, from 3:00pm-7:00pm
Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration (Elmsford)
On Saturday, December 21st, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Alexander Hamilton High School will host a vibrant community event in its gymnasium. The event will feature a variety of performances, including reflections, songs, African dance, drumming, and storytelling. The event will showcase community awards, student presentations, and kids activities, accompanied by food and refreshments for everyone to enjoy. Local businesses will also be present, offering crafts, jewelry, and gifts perfect for the holiday season. Alexander Hamilton High School 98 South Goodwin Avenue
Saturday, December 7th, at 1:00 pm
Kwanzaa Festival
Head to the Bronx to celebrate unity and community at the Kwanzaa Festival. This fun event, hosted by A Learning Tree School, offers an array of activities that highlight African culture, including drumming and dance performances. Families can enjoy the Children’s Village, featuring free arts and crafts, face painting, storytelling, and games. Families can also support small businesses by shopping for unique holiday gifts provided by local vendors at the festival. 3830 Paulding Avenue, Bronx, NY 10469
Saturday, December 21st, at 5:00 pm
Kwanzaa 2024 at Hudson Hall
Take a drive up to Hudson to celebrate Kwanzaa with the entire family. This holiday event offers an afternoon filled with activities for all ages, including arts and crafts for children, dancing, and drumming. Families can take part in a meaningful candle-lighting ceremony while learning about Nguzo Saba, the seven principles of Kwanzaa. The schedule includes an arts and crafts session for children at 3:00 pm, an exciting performance at 4:00 pm, and a community dinner at 5:30 pm. This event is free and open to all. 327 Warren St, Hudson, NY 12534
Thursday, December 19th, from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Twas The Night Before Kwanzaa
“Twas The Night Before KWANZAA” is a delightful holiday comedy that takes audiences on a spirited journey as Santa Claus finds himself unexpectedly diverted to Africa. This tale not only entertains but also educates viewers about the rich traditions of Kwanzaa. By showcasing Santa’s adventures and newfound understanding of this cultural celebration, the story highlights the importance of community, heritage, and the joy of learning about different cultures. The Play Group Theatre, 1 North Broadway #111 White Plains, NY 10601
Saturday, December 21st from 12:00pm-7:00pm
Kwanzaa Family Festival and Marketplace
Enjoy a day in celebration of Kwanzaa at this annual event. Guests of all ages are invited to curate their own experience with different activities that embody one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. During the event families can enjoy free activities such as performances, family activities, dance, drumming, face painting, storytelling, and arts and crafts workshops.
Additionally, there will be Kwanzaa candle-lighting ceremony and a vibunzi — a tradition of honoring young people with an ear of corn (or, in this case, fresh fruits and vegetables) to represent the hope for the future they bring. In addition, festival local crafters, artists, and merchants will be on-hand. They will be selling a variety of one-of-a-kind treasures such as custom and cultural clothing, handcrafted jewelry, bath and body products, candles, books, art, and more. 1 Center Street, Newark, NJ 07102
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