On Saturday, December 28th, the Smith Family Foundation of New Jersey invites you and your family to be a part of this year’s show-stopping Kwanzaa 365 celebration. This beloved annual event brings the magic of Kwanzaa to the Capital City, illuminating all that makes up this special holiday. This year’s festivities will take place from 11am to 6:30pm at the historic Trenton War Memorial, located in Downtown Trenton at 1 Memorial Dr, Trenton, NJ 08608. The theme for this year’s celebration will be focused on the principle of Umoja, which stands “to strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation, and race”.

This year’s celebration will feature a number of family-friendly favorites, including educational panels, discussions, giveaways, and a number of live performances, including the evening’s headliner, Trenton’s own Poor Righteous Teachers. This vibrant afternoon of learning, culture, and unity offers a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and reflect on the rich history of the African American community. A comprehensive list of the day’s events can be found here: SFFNJ – Run of Show.

Kwanzaa, a holiday celebrating African American culture and heritage, was first observed in 1966. Created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor of African American Studies at California State University, Long Beach, the heart behind Kwanzaa was to unite and celebrate the rich culture and heritage of the African American community.

The name Kwanzaa derives from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” meaning “first fruits.” Each evening of the celebration, a candle is lit on the Kinara, and one of the seven principles is discussed. These principles include Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). Since its inception, Kwanzaa has brought together millions across the pan-African community to celebrate, reflect, and reaffirm their commitment to these principles.

The Smith Family Foundation hosts the Kwanzaa celebration in the Capital City. After receiving a substantial financial blessing, the Smith family decided to use this opportunity to give back to their community. The foundation is guided by four core values: education, cultivation, transformation, and urban ministry.

For more information about the Smith Family Foundation’s other transformative work in the community, please visit their website: SFF – Home.

This extraordinary opportunity presents a fantastic chance to connect with the community, cherish traditions, and immerse yourself in an enriching cultural experience. If you have any queries or wish to learn more regarding the upcoming festivities, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Smith Family Foundation at (609) 888-6300 or by utilizing their convenient online contact form, linked here: Contact Us – SFF. If you wish to be a vendor at this year’s celebration, please contact Ms. Higgins at higgins@sffnj.org for further details. One of the year’s most memorable celebrations will be here before you know it, and you won’t want to miss being a part of the fun. Mark your calendars today!

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