BY Georgette Gilmore
If you celebrate Kwanzaa or just want to experience the African-American holiday that celebrates family, community and culture, there are some great events in Baristaville and beyond:
Step Afrika!
Who: Ages 10 and up.
What: Step Afrika is the first professional dance company to celebrate the tradition of stepping as an art form originated from African American fraternities and African traditions. Celebrate the spirit of Kwanzaa in this part-poetry slam and part-body percussion performance!
Where: NJPAC, 1 Center Street, Newark, NJ.
When: Saturday, December 18 at 2 pm and 5 pm.
Cost: Tickets per person beginning at $20. Click here to purchase tickets online.
22nd Annual Community Kwanzaa Celebration
Who: All ages.
What: Celebrate two decades of community spirit with performances by the Usaama Dance Company of Montclair, Kwanzaa libation ceremony & Kwanzaa craft for children. The African Market opens at noon.
Where: Montclair Public Library, 60 S. Fullerton Avenue, Montclair, NJ, 07042.
When: Saturday, December 1. Market starts at 12 pm. Celebration starts at 1 pm.
Cost: Free.
The Legacy Continues…Kwanzaa 2010!
Who: All ages.
What: Celebrate Kwanzaa with an all-day event at the American Museum of Natural History. The event honors the seven African-based principles of Kwanzaa called Nguzo Saba in Swahili, with performances of song, dance, and spoken word.
Where: American Museum of Natural History, Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, first floor, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY.
When: Sunday, December 26 from 12 pm – 5 pm. Click here for a full schedule of events.
Cost: Free with museum admission. Admission rates: Adult: $20, Children: $13, Seniors/Students: $16. Call 212.769.5100 for more information.
(Photo: Flickr/purejuice2)
