CROWN HEIGHTS, Brooklyn (PIX11) \u2014 Families across New York City are coming together this week to celebrate Kwanzaa and its rich cultural traditions.<\/p>\n
At the Brooklyn Children\u2019s Museum in Crown Heights, the five-day \u201cCelebrate Kwanzaa\u201d festival is helping children connect with their heritage through art, music, and community.<\/p>\n
More Local News <\/a><\/p>\n The sound of drums filled the museum on Friday morning, marking the first day of the annual festival. In one room, children shaped clay and painted Unity Cups, a symbol of togetherness at the heart of the holiday. Among them was young Zahir, crafting beside his mother, DeJeanne Washington.<\/p>\n \u201cSo we decided to come out today because we do a monthly Jack and Jill activity, and we figured that Kwanzaa was one of the best things to showcase our African American and Black pride,\u201d said Washington.<\/p>\n Now in its 18th year, the Brooklyn Children\u2019s Museum\u2019s \u201cCelebrate Kwanzaa\u201d event highlights the seven principles of the holiday through dance, storytelling, and hands-on workshops.<\/p>\n \u201cAt Brooklyn Children\u2019s Museum, we really believe in the diversity in our communities in Brooklyn and creating a space where people see themselves and where people feel welcome celebrating their traditions,\u201d said Dylan House, Director of Public Programs.<\/p>\n The Asase Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation led Afrobeat workshops and drumming circles that had kids moving, smiling, and learning.<\/p>\n