Malcolm X College to Host Weeklong Kwanzaa Celebration, Free and Open to the Public (Chicago, IL) – Malcolm X College will host its annual Kwanzaa celebration from December 26 through January 1, inviting the community to take part in a week of cultural programming, performances, and family-friendly activities. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Building and Sustaining Community One Principle at a Time,” reflecting the values of the Nguzo Saba—the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa.
The free event, held daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the college’s West Side campus, 1900 W. Jackson Blvd., will offer live performances, artisan shopping, workshops, and activities for all ages. Local vendors will sell handmade jewelry, African clothing, artwork, drums, pottery, leather goods, and specialty candles and soaps.
Each day’s program begins at noon with a Drum Call, Libation, recounting of Kwanzaa history, lighting of the kinara, and an introduction to the principle of the day. Performances begin at approximately 1 p.m.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the college for its efforts to bring communities together during the holiday season.
“I commend Malcolm X College for uniting our communities and honoring our heritage through the celebration of Kwanzaa,” Johnson said. “This celebration is a time to strengthen our connections, uplift traditions, and spread peace and hope throughout Chicago.”
Dr. David Sanders, president of Malcolm X College, said the event reflects the college’s longstanding commitment to culture and community.
“Our Kwanzaa celebration is a cherished tradition that reflects the culture and spirit of Malcolm X College and our entire city,” Sanders said. “I invite everyone to join us for this free celebration as we honor the history, values, and enduring significance of Kwanzaa.”
Daily Performance Schedule
- Dec. 26 — 1 p.m.: Malcolm X College Choir & Najwa Dance Corps
- Dec. 27 — 1 p.m.: Consulate General of the Republic of Haiti in Chicago
- Dec. 28 — 1 p.m.: Betty Shabazz International Charter School
- Dec. 29 — 1 p.m.: Chi-Village Day
- Dec. 30 — 1 p.m.: Metropolitan Board of the Chicago Urban League & Liberated Arts Movement
- Dec. 31 — 1 p.m.: Culture & Collabs
- Jan. 1 — 12:30 p.m.: Malcolm X College Ayodele Drum and Dance
Kwanzaa, created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, is rooted in African harvest traditions and celebrates seven core principles known as the Nguzo Saba: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith).
The celebration and marketplace will take place on the college’s first floor. Free parking with validation will be available in the campus parking deck, accessible from Jackson Street.
This year’s event is co-produced by The Daughters of Haiti, Betty Shabazz International Charter School, Chi-Village, the Metropolitan Board of the Chicago Urban League, the Liberated Arts Movement, Culture & Collab, and Malcolm X College.
For more info, click here or visit https://colleges.ccc.edu/event/malcolm-x-kwanzaa-2025
Malcolm X College to Host Weeklong Kwanzaa Celebration, Free and Open to the Public
