From December 26 through January 1, communities across the Triangle come together to observe Kwanzaa, a weeklong cultural celebration rooted in African heritage, unity, and collective purpose. Guided by the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles), Kwanzaa events throughout the region offer meaningful opportunities for families, neighbors, and visitors to reflect, connect, and celebrate together.

Whether you’re in Durham, Carrboro, or Cary, this day-by-day list highlights Kwanzaa events happening across the Triangle.

What Is Kwanzaa?

Kwanzaa is a cultural observance celebrated annually from December 26 to January 1, honoring African American history and values. Each day focuses on one of the Seven Principles:

Umoja (Unity) Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility) Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) Nia (Purpose) Kuumba (Creativity) Imani (Faith)

Events often include candle-lighting ceremonies, storytelling, music and dance, youth activities, and community service initiatives.

Day-by-Day List of Kwanzaa Events in the Triangle

Friday, December 26, 2025

Hayti Legacy Kwanzaa Celebration

Suggested donation: $5 (no one turned away)

🕐 1:00 pm – 6:30 pm | FREE

📍 Hayti Heritage Center

Kick off Kwanzaa in Durham’s historic Hayti community with a legacy celebration featuring reflections on Umoja, cultural programming, and community fellowship.

Saturday, December 27, 2025

Town of Carrboro Kwanzaa Celebration

🕚 11:00 am – 4:00 pm | FREE

📍 Drakeford Library Complex, Carrboro

A family-friendly celebration hosted by the Town of Carrboro with educational programming, cultural activities, and community engagement.

Kwanzaa Celebration: Family Vision Boarding

🕛 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm | FREE

📍 Cocoa Cinnamon, Lakewood (Durham)

This creative gathering focuses on Nia (Purpose), inviting families to set intentions for the new year through guided vision boarding.

Sunday, December 28, 2025

Kwanzaa Celebration at Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship

🕚 11:00 am | FREE

📍 Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Durham

A reflective, community-centered Kwanzaa observance highlighting unity, faith, and shared values.

Kwanzaa: Coat Drive

🕑 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm | FREE

📍 USSW, Durham

Celebrate Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) by giving back—this event combines Kwanzaa observance with a community coat drive.

Monday, December 29, 2025

Town of Cary’s Annual Kwanzaa Celebration

🕜 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm | FREE

📍 Cary Arts Center, Cary

A signature regional celebration featuring performances, cultural presentations, and reflections on heritage and community.

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Kwanzaa Celebration: Free Family & Individual Photo Shoot

🕐 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm | FREE

📍 Legacy Studios NC, Durham

Close out the year by capturing memories with a free professional photo experience celebrating family, identity, and Imani (Faith).

Thursday, January 1, 2026

Kwanzaa Fest with the African American Dance Ensemble

🕛 12:00 pm – 5:30 pm | FREE

📍 Durham Armory

Ring in the new year with high-energy performances, cultural expression, and community celebration honoring creativity and faith.

Celebrate Kwanzaa Across the Triangle

Kwanzaa events in the Triangle are welcoming, accessible, and rooted in community values. Many are free and open to the public, making it easy for families, elders, and young people to participate together. Times and details may change, so it’s always a good idea to confirm event information with organizers before attending.

From legacy celebrations and service-focused events to dance performances and creative workshops, Kwanzaa in the Triangle offers powerful ways to close out the year with intention, unity, and purpose. Enjoy a look at photo’s from the Southeast Raleigh Kwanzaa Event.

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