The Hayti Heritage Center and The Magic of African Rhythm proudly present the annual Hayti Legacy Kwanzaa Celebration, continuing a community tradition in Durham. As in previous years, the celebration features intergenerational cultural programming, African dance and drumming, wellness activities, youth entrepreneurship, and the beloved Ujamaa Marketplace modeled on last year’s offerings.
This year’s theme, “Love Leads Us Home,” inspired by the adinkra symbol and proverb: Odo Nnyew Fie Kwan — “Love does not lose its way home. Those led by love always end up in the right place,” speaks directly to our current moment. As families navigate political uncertainty, cultural erasure, and economic pressure, this theme serves as a reminder that love is our compass, our grounding force, and our path back to each other.
“We chose this theme because love is ancestral, cultural, and actionable,” said Festival Co-director Teli Shabu. “It calls us home to ourselves, our relationships, and the practices that sustain our people.”
1:00 PM – Umoja Escape Room, handcrafts, face painting
2:00 PM – Soul Yoga with Twisted Yogi
2:30 PM – Intergenerational panel discussion
3:00 PM – Drumming workshop with Teli Shabu
4:00 PM – Procession & traditional African dance performance by Kuumba Dance Company
4:20 PM – Candle Lighting Ceremony & Special Honoring hosted by April Turner
4:50 PM – Performance by Africa Unplugged
All Day – Ujamaa African Marketplace
2:00 PM – Soul Yoga with Twisted Yogi
2:30 PM – Intergenerational panel discussion
3:00 PM – Drumming workshop with Teli Shabu
4:00 PM – Procession & traditional African dance performance by Kuumba Dance Company
4:20 PM – Candle Lighting Ceremony & Special Honoring hosted by April Turner
4:50 PM – Performance by Africa Unplugged
All Day – Ujamaa African Marketplace
Suggested donation: $5. Your contribution keeps this community tradition thriving. No one will be turned away. Donation options available at the ticket link.
About Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday that celebrates the inherent connection to African history, values, family, community, and culture held from December 26th to January 1st every year.