Kwanzaa Our Way

Community Arts for Seniors

Friday, December 12, 2025
🕘 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM CST

Location:

Grand Ballroom
6351 South Cottage Grove Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60637

Join Africa International House USA, Inc. for a joyful, day-long celebration — Kwanzaa Our Way! This special event, part of AIH’s Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration & Marketplace, honors our rich heritage, creativity, and community spirit through art, fashion, dance, and fellowship.

Come experience a full day of engaging performances, line dancing, fashion, music, and good company — all curated especially for seniors and the community at large.

Each event is only $10, so you can enjoy one or stay for the entire celebration!

Pre-Kwanzaa Holiday

Celebration & Marketplace

Celebrating Umoja (Unity)

Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location:
Washington Park Refectory
5531 South Russell Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60637

Join us for a cultural experience that transcends time and space!


Celebrate Umoja—the first principle of Kwanzaa—through community, creativity, and culture.


Enjoy a lively marketplace featuring one-of-a-kind handcrafted products, delicious foods, live music, engaging conversations, storytelling, and so much more.

This is more than an event—it’s a celebration of unity, family, and shared heritage. Bring your loved ones and experience the warmth, creativity, and power of our community coming together before Kwanzaa.

KUJICHAGULIA:

A Day of Self-Determination

Friday, December 27 | Tickets: $25 (Lunch at 1 PM only)

Join us for a powerful Kwanzaa celebration focused on Kujichagulia — Self-Determination. This day features dynamic speakers, community dialogue, and Pan-African insight designed to strengthen our cultural identity and collective voice.

Event Schedule

11:00 AM – Self-Determination with Captain Traore: A Community Conversation (Part II)


Presenters: Nehaz Meniooh & Kasabez Maakmaah

2:30 PM – 4:30 PM – African & Diasporan Politics from a Pan-African Perspective
Presenter: Pa Joof

Why Attend?

Experience meaningful dialogue, cultural learning, and community connection as we close out the year in unity and empowerment.

All are welcome.

Purchase Tickets

The Art of Figurative

Artist Dayo Laoye

Experience the powerful artistry of Dayo Laoye, inspired by African traditions, spirituality, and the human form. 🖼️

Opening Reception: Saturday, October 4th | 1 PM – 4 PM

Africa International House, 6200 S. Drexel Ave, Chicago, IL

📅 Exhibit runs through October 31st, 2025 Gallery Hours: Mon–Fri | 12 PM – 6 PM Sat | 11 AM – 4 PM

(Closed Sundays & Public Holidays)

Save the date and join us for this unforgettable cultural celebration!

FAQs

Find answers to common questions about our event planning services. Don't see yours? Contact us!

What is Africa International House USA, Inc.?

AIH is a nonprofit organization based in Chicago that promotes and preserves the cultures and traditions of the African diaspora through events, education, and community engagement.

Can school or community groups visit the exhibitions?

Absolutely! AIH encourages educational engagement. Contact the team directly to arrange a visit or guided tour.

What is the African Festival of the Arts (AFA)?

The African Festival of the Arts is AIH’s flagship event—a four-day outdoor celebration held annually in Washington Park, Chicago. It features art, music, food, fashion, and culture from across the African diaspora.

Where can I view the art exhibitions featured by AIH?

AIH curates and presents art exhibitions at various venues and special events. Check the Art Exhibitions section of the website for current and upcoming showcases.