Gainesville to celebrate Kwanzaa history 

The city of Gainesville’s A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center will host “A History of Kwanzaa” on Tuesday. 

The free event is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the 1013 NW 7th Ave. location. 

The Kwanzaa festival begins on Monday and is an opportunity to learn more about this seven-day celebration of African American heritage, culture, and people. 

“Although it was initially for African-American communities and Africans of descent, we welcome any and everyone to share in this cultural tradition,” said A. Quinn Jones Museum Coordinator Carol Richardson in a statement.   

In partnership with The Black Hats Collective, the museum’s event will feature local historian Kali Blount, who will share the story of Kwanzaa, the seven candles, the feast and music, and the holiday’s focus on principles such as self-determination and unity.  

Steve Cobb and Chavunduka will give musical performances. 

Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of African American culture from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, culminating in a communal feast called Karamu, usually on the sixth day. 

“Over the next seven days, we observe Kwanzaa, a celebration of Pan-African heritage, culture and people,” Gainesville Mayor Lauren Poe said in a Monday statement.