Kwanzaa in Chicago 2009

Exhausted yet? Hot on the heels of Christmas comes the celebration founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966. Kwanzaa begins on Friday, December 26, 2008 and runs for seven days. Each day of the holiday represents a different principle: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.

Malcolm X College
Friday, December 26, 2008 to Thursday, January 1, 2009
One of Chicago's most prominent Kwanzaa celebrations takes place at Malcolm X College. The seven day event features a daily opening ceremony, loads of entertainment and performers, more than 50 vendors, and more.

• 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Every Day
• Free and Open to the Public

Contact Info: Jessica Holloway at (312) 850-4505.
Download their calendar with event and performer listings here (pdf).

• 1900 West Van Buren
• Chicago, IL
• Map It
• Using the CTA Trip Planner

Pre-Kwanzaa - Harambee! on Wednesday, December 17, 2008
According to organizers, the Harambee Pre-Kwanzaa Festival, "is a dynamic musical celebration featuring Kwame Steve Cobb and Chavunduka performing songs from their Seven Principles recording."
• 10:30 a.m.
• Order tickets here.
• House of Hope Arena
• 752 E. 114th Street at Bishop Ford Freeway
• Chicago, IL
• Map It
• Using the CTA Trip Planner