DETROIT (WXYZ) - The week-long celebration of Kwanzaa kicks off today and runs to January 1. Kwanzaa celebrates the seven core principles of unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.
Kwanzaa was first celebrated in 1966 when it was created by Maulana Karenga.
The name of the celebration is derived from a Swahili phrase that means first fruits of the harvest. It was established as a way for African Americans to reconnect with their African cultural and historical heritage.
In the Detroit area, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is presenting their annual Kwanzaa celebration tonight, Saturday and Sunday. Each night's celebration begins with a candle lighting at 6 p.m.
Thursday's events include a storytelling presentation of "Wise Tales From the Village" by members of the Detroit Association of Black Storytellers as well as musical performances.
Organizers say Sunday's celebration will include hip-hop artist Khary Frazier's first performance in two years.
All of the events are free and open to the public. The museum is located at 315 East Warren Avenue in Detroit. For more information, visit this Kwnzaa page on their website.