Christmas and Hanukkah might be the big celebrations in December, but they aren’t the only ones that offer fun for families. The cold and snowy final month of the year also features other religious and historical holidays, alongside cultural ones like Kwanzaa.
During this holiday, which runs Dec. 26-Jan. 1 every year, Americans of African descent from all over the country gather to celebrate African heritage.
This includes learning about the seven principles of Kwanzaa — unity, self-determination, work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.
Are you looking for Kwanzaa events for kids in Detroit and nearby? Here are some of our favorite happenings in 2024.
This article was recently updated on Dec. 17, 2024 by Metro Parent’s audience development coordinator, Kari Zaffarano. The update included her adding Kwanzaa events to MetroParent.com‘s calendar and featuring the best Kwanzaa events in metro Detroit. Questions? Please reach out to kari@metroparent.
Annual Motor City Kwanza Kinara Lighting Ceremony
Dec. 26, 2024
- Address: Cadillac Square, Detroit
- Cost: Free
See the 3rd Annual Motor City Kwanza Kinara Lighting Ceremony in Cadillac Square, the unity candle lighting at sunset and hear a keynote speaker. RSVP required.
Kwanzaa 5K Fun Run at In Harmony Café Sweets & More
Dec. 26, 2024
- Address: 12041 Dexter Ave., Detroit
- Cost: $7
Celebrate Kwanzaa with your family, friends and community with a 5K Fun Run. For all ages and runners. Registration required.
Kwanzaa Ornament Craft at Jefferson Branch
Dec. 26, 2024
- Address: 12350 Outer Drive East, Detroit
- Cost: Free
Families can come out to Detroit Public Library – Jefferson Branch to celebrate Kwanzaa with stories and a Kwanzaa ornament craft. RSVP recommended.
KAN 2024 Kwanzaa Celebration
Dec. 27, 2024
- Address: 16225 W. Seven Mile Road, Detroit
- Cost: Free
This Kwanzaa Celebration features a traditional Kwanzaa ceremony and candle lighting, live performances and music, community marketplace, interactive workshops, African-inspired food and drinks and activities for all ages. RSVP recommended.
Kwanzaa & Kulture: Community Bowling Day at Garden Bowl
Dec. 27, 2024
- Address: 4140 Woodward Ave., Detroit
- Cost: $35/adult, $10/youth, $15/t-shirt
Enjoy the 4th Annual Kwanzaa & Kulture: Community Bowling Day, which focuses on Kujichagulia (Self-Determination). It includes two hours of bowling, soft drinks and food.
A Kwanzaa Storytime at Elmwood Branch
Dec. 28, 2024
- Address: 550 Chene St., Detroit
- Cost: Free
Families can join Detroit Public Library – Elmwood Branch for A Kwanzaa Storytime to celebrate African American culture and traditions. RSVP recommended.
Follow Metro Parent on Instagram.
