A Kwanzaa 365, celebrates the African American holiday of Kwanzaa and explores its seven principals through ceremony, observance, reflection, music, drum performance, poetry, food and community.

Inspired by African harvest festivals and traditions, Kwanzaa was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga and first celebrated in 1966. The practice centers on seven principals, identified by Swahili names: Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nina (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith).

The YMI Cultural Center will host a free daily celebration —  Dec. 26, through Jan. 1 at 6pm — This celebration is also available through the organization’s YouTube Channel for those who can’t attend in person. 

The online series includes teachings from community leaders (Alexander Ravenel II, Kenya K. Stevens, Michael Hayes, and others), reflection on each principal and how to relate it to daily life, a ritual and candle lighting ceremony, and daily musical performances (Lyric, Virtuous, Spaceman Jones, Kevin Spears, Brothers in Christ, Jamar Woods, and praise dance by Denise Carter).

For more details, contact Nex Millen at akwanzaa365@gmail.com.