Ways to Celebrate Kwanzaa in Charlotte
History and culture. Immerse yourself in the cultural celebration of African and African-American tradition during Kwanzaa in Charlotte.
by Regina Johnson Dec 15, 2020
Centered on family, community and culture, Kwanzaa celebrations are built on the Nguzo Saba or Seven Principles. The holiday lasts seven days starting Dec. 26 with each day celebrating a different principle. During Kwanzaa, each value is represented on a candle holder called a kinara, which are individually lit each night of the celebration.
Due to COVID-19 and related health concerns, Kwanzaa Charlotte has decided to move their usual in-person, week-long celebration online. Join Kwanzaa Charlotte in celebrating family, community and culture through virtual events that honor the principles of Umoja, Kujichagulia and Imani. All virtual events will be hosted on the group’s YouTube channel.
Day 1: Umoja – For unity in the family, community, nation and race
Saturday, Dec. 26, 7 p.m.
Hosted by Kwanzaa Charlotte and facilitated by Terry Tiamd, Mother Minter, and Tahirah Farrer-Bradley.
Day 2: Kujichagulia – For self-determination
Sunday, Dec. 27, 7 p.m.
Hosted by Kwanzaa Charlotte and facilitated by the Jzar family.
Day 3: Imani – For faith
Friday, Jan. 1, 7 p.m.
Hosted by Kwanzaa Charlotte and facilitated by A Sign of the Times and Rev. Sheldon R. Shipman.
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Online Storytimes
Join in on these online programs to experience storytelling, songs and movement activities while learning about the celebration of Kwanzaa. Get involved in discussions and leave inspired to begin your own Kwanzaa celebration after being introduced to the community-building principles and symbols of the Kwanzaa celebration. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate.
- Hickory Grove Branch Family Storytime: Kwanzaa with Mother Minter
Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020, 11-11:45 a.m. - Sugar Creek Branch Family Storytime: Mother Minter's Gift of Kwanzaa
Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2020, 3-4 p.m.
Harvey B. Gantt Center Kwanzaa Celebration Workshop
Tuesday, Dec. 29, 7-8 p.m.
The Harvey B. Gantt Center invites you to learn more about the fundamentals of the holiday, as well as the fourth principle, Ujamaa, which represents Cooperative Economics. In the spirit of highlighting the importance of supporting our community’s businesses, Kathy Fogle, a local candle artist and owner of Happy Kat Candles & Gifts, will lead an at-home candle creation workshop.