1st day of Kwanzaa celebrated in Philadelphia with week's worth of events for families

CENTER CITY - Philadelphia is celebrating the first day of Kwanzaa and the holiday, created in 1966, highlights African culture.

The African American Museum in Philadelphia has become the hub of tradition for Kwanzaa over the years.

The museum has a full slate of family-friendly activities running through New Year’s Day, the last day of Kwanzaa.

"We’re so excited to put on Kwanzaa for the second year in a row. We’re in programming for seven straight days, so we’re honoring every principle of Kwanzaa," Director of Programming for the African American Museum of Philadelphia, Nina Ball, explained. "It’s been a long year for a lot of our community and Philadelphians and Kwanzaa is that time to really reflect on our values of community and togetherness, economic strength and fortitude and things that are family-friendly and wholesome."

Kicking off the opening ceremony on the first day of Kwanzaa celebrating Umoja, which means unity, unifying all generations from the kids to the elders through music, dance, drumming and poetry.

"I think that’s a big part of Kwanzaa," Karen Smith, with Sisters Laying Down Hands Collective, said. "It’s connecting all communities, older levels, ages. Everyone comes together."

Instilling Black pride and heritage into the younger generations while instilling the values and traditions of a diverse, resilient people.

"Kwanzaa is an important holiday for our community, but Philly, specifically, does a lot to empower communities," Brianna Belo stated.

Tish Bruce added, "When it comes to Kwanzaa, it’s just something that people are learning more about trying to connect with more broadly and the fact that they have performances going on and different exhibits."

Hoping the seven-day celebration brings understanding of the beauty of Kwanzaa.

"I would love people to walk away with a deeper appreciation that every day is intentional. About how do we live and embody these principles all year round," Ball remarked. "Everyone is welcome to come out to observe Kwanzaa and celebrate with us, knowing what’s at  the core is these black stories, culture and traditions."