This year, the Athens Kwanzaa Alliance comes together to celebrate Kwanzaa through a powerful series of educational, cultural, and creative events designed to uplift voices, honor leadership, and invest in the future.
What to Expect: Kwanzaa in Athens (Dec 26 – Jan 1)
Friday, December 26 – Umoja (Unity)
Theme: Cultural Competence Strategies for Community Advancement
Location: First AME Church, 521 Hull St, Athens, GA
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
The celebration opens with Umoja, the principle of unity, emphasizing togetherness within family, community, and nation. The evening features guest speakers from Hive Mind Investment Cooperative and Jennine Labuzan-Delane, with food provided by Dawg Gone BBQ. This gathering sets the tone for collective healing, collaboration, and shared purpose.
Saturday, December 27 – Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
Theme: Shining a Spotlight on the Voices of Our Youth
Location: Athens Clarke County Library, 2025 Baxter St, Athens, GA
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Kujichagulia calls for defining and speaking for ourselves. This event centers youth voices and empowerment, reminding the community that self-determination begins early.
Guest Speaker: Dr. Christina Hylton, presenting Education as a Healing Practice.
Sunday, December 28 – Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
Theme: Community Conversations with Athens’ Mayoral Candidates
Location: Athens Clarke County Library, 2025 Baxter St, Athens, GA
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Ujima emphasizes solving problems together and building a stronger community through shared responsibility. This open forum invites residents to engage directly with local leadership.
Co-hosts: Kirrena Gallagher and Rick Dunn.
Tuesday, December 30 – Nia (Purpose)
Theme: Children’s Reading and Craft Program
Location: Athens Clarke County Library, 2025 Baxter St, Athens, GA
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Nia focuses on collective purpose and building a future rooted in community uplift. This family-friendly event nurtures imagination and learning in children.
Storytime Lead: Dr. Freda Giles.
Wednesday, December 31 – Kuumba (Creativity)
Theme: Fashion Show, Community Potluck, and Live Performances
Location: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 780 Timothy Rd, Athens, GA
Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
The celebration culminates with Kuumba, honoring creativity as a tool for liberation and expression. The evening features art, fashion, food, and live performances that reflect the vibrancy of the community.
Mistress of Ceremonies: Mokah Johnson.