– Caribbean Life

Kwanzaa is a week-long African American holiday observed from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1, which focuses on the traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce and self improvement.

The name Kwanzaa is derived from the phrase, “matunda ya kwana” which means, “first fruits” in Swahili. On Friday, Dec. 30, African Burial Ground National Monument will celebrate Kwanzaa and would like you to join us.

Celebrating Kwanzaa

Enjoy family-friendly activities as the African Burial Ground National Monument observes the principles of Kwanzaa and shares the history of the burial ground.

10:30 a.m.: African Spiritual Beading with Vickie Fremont. Learn how to make necklaces and memory bracelets made with traditional African beads.

11:00 a.m. – 12:10 p.m.: Film: “The Black Candle”. This award-winning documentary film explored the meaning and history of Kwanzaa (1 hr 10 minutes).

12:30 p.m.: History of Kwanzaa Workshop by Cyril Innis, Jr. (30 minutes).

1:00 p.m.: “The Black Nutcracker” by Uptown Dance Academy

2:30 p.m.: Traditional African Wire Doll Making by Ivelisse Pabon de Landron. Learn about the island of Puerto Rico and its Black traditional doll making craft.

3:00 p.m.: Ranger-led tour of African Burial Ground National Monument

3:30 p.m.: African Naming Ceremony led by Queen Mother Dr. Delois Blakely

Plan Your Visit

African Burial Ground National Monument Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and closed all Federal holidays. The memorial is open seven days a week, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The Kwanzaacelebration will take place at the African Burial Ground National Monument, located on the first floor of the Ted Weiss Federal Building at 290 Broadway in Lower Manhattan, close to Foley Square and just north of City Hall. Upon entering the building, members of the public will have to go through security screening.