Kwanzaa is a seven-day holiday that celebrates Family, Community and Culture. The word “Kwanzaa” comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” meaning “first fruits.” Kwanzaa begins on December 26 and ends on January 1. Each of the seven days signifies one of seven principles of African heritage. Experience this cross-cultural tradition with music, dance and refreshments at various venues and virtually. If you know of any we have missed, please email laura@milehighonthecheap.com. Here’s the schedule:
Tuesday, December 26
Umoja (Unity!)
4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
An exciting presentation with Friends of Joda and Sarah Graham, Creator and Social Justice Curriculum Expert. Through interactive activities, we’ll embark on a journey to explore the essence of unity within our communities. Together, we’ll unravel the intricate web of intersecting identities that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Black culture. Q&A to follow.
Location: Ford Warren Branch Library, 2825 High St., Denver.
First Night Celebration
6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The First Night Celebration will showcase “The Circle of Wisdom” inductees and the IWADEE African Dance Troupe, and pay tribute to Thedora Jackson, who has been instrumental to the celebration throughout the years.
Location: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theater, 119 Park Ave., W., Denver, 80205
Wednesday, December 27
Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
Noon to 1 p.m.
The Friends of Joda will provide an introduction to Kwanzaa and the dynamic duo Lesley Pace-Gormley & Chaz Gormley will provide a guided yoga and sound bath meditation session. Q & A to follow.
Location: Virginia Village Branch Library, 1500 S. Dahlia St., Denver.
Make A Paper Chain To Celebrate and Learn About Kwanzaa
12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Celebrate and learn about Kwanzaa through making paper chains! This hands-on activity will allow you to craft your own vibrant paper chain while discovering the significance of each color and symbol. Open to all.
Location: Girl Scout DreamLab, 63 N. Quebec St., Denver 80224
Thursday, December 28
Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
Noon to 1 p.m.
This program will feature the Friends of Joda who will provide an introduction to Kwanzaa. The Friends of Joda collective is a tribute to the memory of the late, great Baba Adejunti Joda. The dances and drumming performed reflect the language and culture of the Yoruba people from the West African nation of Nigeria.
Location: Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, 2401 Welton St., Denver.
Make A Paper Chain To Celebrate and Learn About Kwanzaa
2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Celebrate and learn about Kwanzaa through making paper chains! This hands-on activity will allow you to craft your own vibrant paper chain while discovering the significance of each color and symbol. Open to all.
Location: Girl Scout DreamLab, 63 N. Quebec St., Denver 80224
Friday, December 29
Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
This program will feature the Friends of Joda and Kadija Taylor, Entrepreneur & Designer, who will share about finding her purpose in facilitating home buying and designing sacred spaces. Q & A to follow.
Location: Park Hill Library, 4701 Montview Blvd., Denver.
Kwanzaa Open Mic Poetry Set
6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center, 2836 Welton, Drnver
Saturday, December 30
Nia (Purpose) & Kuumba (Creativity)
2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
This program will feature the Friends of Joda and the Diaspora Dancers who will share the ways dance can promote mental and physical wellness while celebrating the rich history of the African diaspora. Q & A to follow.
Location: Green Valley Ranch Branch Library, 4856 N. Andes Ct., Denver.
Sunday, December 31
Kwanzaa Talent Show and Big Dance
4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Location: Cross Purpose, 3050 Richard Allen Ct., Denver