45th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration: December 29th, Ujamaa

45th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration
Doors 6pm | Program 6:30PM

WorldBeat Cultural Center invites the community to celebrate its 45th Annual Kwanzaa, honoring four of the seven days of this African American cultural holiday rooted in African traditions. Observed from December 26 to January 1, Kwanzaa centers on the Nguzo Saba—the Seven Principles: Umoja-Unity, Kujichagulia- Self-Determination, Ujima – Collective Work & Responsibility, Ujamaa – Cooperative Economics, Nia – Purpose, Kuumba – Creativity, and Imani – Faith.

Each evening features ceremonial candle lighting, libations, African drumming, poetry, music, and reflections from featured speakers and performers aligned with the night’s principle. Guests will also share in the Karamu, the traditional Kwanzaa feast plate, featuring black-eyed peas, collard greens, gumbo, potato salad, and corn muffins. This year’s celebration also launches the inaugural Kwanzaa Awards, honoring individuals whose work embodies the values of the Nguzo Saba. All events are free, family-friendly, and open to the public. Advance RSVP encouraged.

Hosted by MC Sidiqa Hooker aka Soulspiration

Day 4: Monday, December 29th: Ujamaa, Cooperative Economics
Performance Highlights

Performance by Tebe Zalango

Tebe Zalango shares the energy and spirit of East African cultural traditions through drumming, dance, and vibrant ensemble performance. Their artistry highlights the power of community collaboration and cultural continuity.

Performance by WorldBeat Center’s African Drum and Dance Ensemble
Master drummer Dramane Koné and his ensemble deliver an electrifying showcase of West African percussion and movement. Their performances celebrate ancestral rhythms, collective expression, and the enduring spirit of cooperation.

This year also marks the inauguration of the Annual Kwanzaa Awards, honoring individuals whose work reflects the values of the Nguzo Saba, including Chuck Ambers, founder of the African Museum Casa del Rey Moro, Maria Lane, San Diego’s First Samba Instructor, Johnnierenee Nia Nelson, WorldBeat Center’s Poet Laurette. Dennis Newsome, Capoeira Angola Mestre, Starla Lewis, Global Teacher of Self-Love and Prince Habib, President of African American Writers & Artists.