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 KwanzaaEnjoy family-friendly activities as the African Burial Ground NationalMonument observes the principles of Kwanzaa and shares the historyof the burial ground.10:30AM: African Spiritual Beading with Vickie Fremont. Learn how to makenecklaces and memory bracelets made with traditional African beads.11AM-12:10PM Film: "The Black Candle". This award-winning documentary filmexplored the meaning and history of Kwanzaa(1 hr 10 minutes)12:30PM: History of Kwanzaa Workshop (30 minutes)1PM: "The Black Nutcracker" by Uptown Dance Academy
2:30PM: Traditional African Wire Doll Making by Ivelisse Pabon de Landron.Learn about the island of Puerto Rico and its Black traditional doll makingcraft.3PM: Ranger-led tour of African Burial Ground National Monument3:30PM: African Naming Ceremony led by Queen Mother Dr. Delois BlakelyAll events and activities are free and open to the public, but reservationsare required. To RSVP call (212) 637-2019.Plan Your VisitAfrican Burial Ground National Monument Visitor Center is open Tuesdaythrough Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm and closed all Federal holidays. Thememorial is open seven days a week, 9 am to 4 pm and closed on New Year'sDay, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The Kwanzaacelebration will takeplace at the African Burial Ground National Monument, located on the firstfloor of the Ted Weiss Federal Building at 290 Broadway in Lower Manhattan,close to Foley Square and just north of City Hall. Upon entering thebuilding, members of the public will have to go through security screening.
All events are free & open to the public, however, space is limited &reservations are required. To RSVP, please call (212) 637-2019.For more information: (212) 637-2019 www.nps.gov/afbgwww.twitter.com/AFBurialGrndNPS