The National Black United Front – Kansas City Chapter (NBUF-KC) is bringing its signature Kwanzaa celebration back to the 18th & Vine Jazz District.
This year’s theme is “Why We Must Win,” with Kwanzaa coordinator Jawanza Hardy connecting the celebration’s theme to current challenges facing the Black community.
“Although the current political climate does not appear to bode well for Black people in this country, we have always faced adversity since we first landed on these shores,” Hardy says. “We are a resilient people who have fought for our liberation throughout our existence.”
The week-long celebration runs from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1. Most events will take place at the Gem Theater, with the final celebration moving to the Nefertiti Ballroom in Kansas City, KS.
The celebration will feature free nightly programs highlighting each of the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles) that form Kwanzaa’s foundation.
Each evening will begin with an African Marketplace at 6 p.m., where local vendors, artisans, and food purveyors showcasing their work. The programs will start nightly at 7 p.m., with John Riley serving as MC throughout the celebration.
Here’s what attendees can experience each day:
Dec. 26 (Umoja/Unity): The Esoke Cultural Arts Center will kick off opening night with traditional African dances. Under the direction of Yaminah Muhammad and musical director Quarieb Muhammad, performers will present “Lomban, The Dance of The Joli” and “Ekon Kon.” NBUF-KC will present the Charles Miller Black Liberation Award to Janay Reliford, who founded Camp C.H.O.I.C.E and leads the KC Reparations Coalition. Reliford has also created “African History Saturdays,” a monthly educational program exploring African heritage.
Dec. 27, (Kujichagulia/Self-Determination): Art In Motion and the African Centered College Preparatory Academy (ACPREP) will host an exploration of “Arts in Education” through a multicultural performance. Directed by Danny Diallo Hinds, the evening will feature dance, music, spoken word, and dramatic interpretations rooted in Alkebulan educational practices, highlighting the empowering role of self-expression and cultural pride.
Dec. 28 (Ujima/Collective Work and Responsibility): Brothers Liberating Our Communities (BLOC), a 501(c)(3) dedicated to increasing Black male educators in schools, will lead this evening’s program. Executive Director Cornell Ellis will guide discussions on academia, achievement, and collaborative futurism, emphasizing the importance of collective work in addressing systemic gaps in education.
Dec. 29 (Ujamaa/Cooperative Economics): The Divine Nine, historically Black Greek organizations, will showcase their collective impact through community service and innovative programs. The Black Student Solidarity Network (BSSN), based at Lincoln Preparatory Academy, a group of activist students at Lincoln College Preparatory Academy, will present their vision for youth activism, focusing on economic empowerment and community engagement.
Dec. 30 (Nia/Purpose): The A-Flat Youth Orchestra, led by founder Darryl A. Chamberlain, will perform musical selections by icons such as Grover Washington and Barry White, marking their sixth Kwanzaa celebration appearance. Highlights include the return of the “Name That Tune” event, special performances by Asa Barnes, the TNC Youth Choir, and pianist Angela Ward.
Dec. 31 (Kuumba/Creativity): The American Jazz Museum will host this celebration at the historic 18th & Vine Jazz District. Through interactive exhibits and live performances, attendees will experience Kansas City’s jazz legacy and the museum’s role as a cultural and educational hub since its founding in 1997.
Jan. 1 (Imani/Faith): The week concludes with the Unity Feast at the Nefertiti Ballroom, 1314 Quindaro Blvd. Beginning at 3 p.m., the afternoon gathering encourages community members to reflect on Kwanzaa’s principles and share food to celebrate faith and fellowship. Attendees are invited to bring a dish to contribute (no pork).
