By Molly Given

Kwanzaa is right around the corner, and there are a few ways that Philadelphians can celebrate the occasion in 2025.

The annual cultural holiday was founded in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor and activist. The celebration is modeled after traditional African harvest festivals from various cultures, and it’s observed every year from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1.

To celebrate the occasion locally, visitors can head to the Penn Museum and African American Museum in Philadelphia for a series of community events honoring the tradition.

The Penn’s event is co-sponsored by the University of Pennsylvania Center for Africana Studies, and set for Sunday, Dec. 28 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free (registration required) and includes access to the Museum’s galleries, exhibitions, and daylong festivities, which span hands-on activities, educational workshops led by Kwanzaa for Me & You, handmade Zawadi gifts for guests, plus different dance and music performances.

“The Penn Museum definitely got the memo with the Umoja (unity) principle,” explains Karen Smith of Karen Smith Drums — a community partner who is participating in the Kwanzaa celebration at Penn for the third year in a row. “Each year has grown with many communities in attendance, the diversity of activities, educational and musical presentations, and having food for the soul on the menu. One leaves with the feeling that it really does take a village.”

In addition, the celebration includes a vendor marketplace highlighting the works of local artists and Black-owned businesses, including Candy Gyrl, Semirah Jewelry, BLK FWRD, Umba, Soultree Tea Company, and Royal Fulani Living, as well as a special themed menu at the Museum Café, a release notes.

Then at the African American Museum in Philadelphia, the week-long celebration, designed to reflect and honor the seven principles of Kwanzaa, will last from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1. The schedule will be packed with both virtual and in-person activities for families.

Guests will be welcomed to daily events starting with an Umoja Unity Ceremony that features live performances, cultural activities, and food.

Throughout the week, AAMP will also offer an evening bazaar showcasing Black-owned vendors, art-making activities, music and dancing, and interactive workshops, a release notes. Additionally, on Dec. 27, AAMP will host its second annual Kwanzaa-inspired cooking class in partnership with the Free Library of Philadelphia. And last but not least, the AAMP’s Museum Shop will offer Kwanzaa-related clothing, goods, and items for guests to purchase and wear throughout the season. All events are free to attend, and registration is required.

“At the African American Museum in Philadelphia, we recognize our important role as a gathering place to honor and uplift the seven principles of Kwanzaa,” says Dr. Ashley Jordan, President and CEO of the African American Museum in Philadelphia. “We are proud of our thoughtful and engaging programming that will encourage visitors of all ages to come together and celebrate the traditions, values, and spirit of Kwanzaa.”

To find out more information on Kwanzaa celebrations at the Penn Museum (3260 South St.) and the AAMP (701 Arch St.) visit penn.museum and aampmuseum.org