How to Celebrate Kwanzaa in Richmond, Virginia

The city of Richmond, Virginia, is home to a 2-day, all-out extravaganza to celebrate Kwanzaa, known as the Capital City Kwanzaa Festival. Sponsored and directed by the Elegba Folklore Society, the festival is a great opportunity for both locals and visitors to enjoy the spirit of the season.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Make the Most of the City During Kwanzaa

1. Celebrate at the Capital City Kwanzaa Festival near the end of the year. While dates vary from year to year, the festival is usually held as close as possible to December 31. Check the official website for information on dates, hours and venues for the festival (see Resources below).

2. Leave the kids at home on the first day of the festival, since the kickoff of the celebration is at a cafe and starts at 8 p.m., lasting well until after midnight. Take advantage of that day by joining with coworkers and friends for a night of drinks and reggae jam.

3. Bring the kids along on the second day. The festival features performances, arts and crafts and storytelling aimed to the little ones.

4. Come hungry. Top chefs and restaurants contribute traditional fare to the festival. The festival starts at the Blues Café (at the Mr. Bojangles Entertainment Complex), where attendees can drink and try the many snacks available. On the next day, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, the whole family can enjoy snack carts and traditional drinks.

5. Attend the lectures. Every year, the Capital City Kwanzaa Festival brings along a series of writers and lecturers to talk about cultural differences and heritage. Some lectures are followed by discussions, while others are simply a place to sit down and listen. In both cases, the presenters are usually top figures in their field and worth listening to.

6. Celebrate at your local Richmond, Virginia library. Throughout the last week of the month, many branches sponsor workshops for both children and adults, most of which allow you to create your own Kwanzaa ornaments and souvenirs. Storytelling time also features a mix of traditional stories (such as Christmas) and ethnic stories related to Kwanzaa.

Tips & Warnings

• The Capital City Kwanzaa Festival in Richmond, Virginia charges a small admittance fee to adults on the second day of the festival. Children under 12 can attend free.
• While at the festival, take advantage of the many unique items for sale. From books to art, the African Market at the Greater Richmond Convention Center is a great time and place to bring home a reminder of the celebration.

Resources

• Capital City Kwanzaa Festival's calendar of events

[nadirah]

on 11/19/2008 This event no longer exists. The only Kwanzza festival in Richmond is at the Great Big Flea Market, 3302 Williamsburg Rd. In Richmond, VA. Dec 26&27th (every year) Call 804 222 2530 for more information.