Kwanzaa, which means “first fruits of the harvest” in Swahili, honors African heritage in the African-American culture. It lasts one week, beginning on Dec. 26 and ending on Jan. 1, with each day devoted to one of the seven core principles, known in Swahili as Nguzo Saba.
Here are some of the family-friendly Kwanzaa celebrations taking place in Chicagoland this year.
Updated Nov. 15, 2025: This article was reviewed and updated by the Chicago Parent editorial team to reflect new event dates, refreshed links and the latest information available for families.
Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration with Kucha and Baba Tony at King Branch
Dec. 6, 2025
- Address: 3436 S. King Drive, Chicago
- Cost: Free
Families can celebrate the upcoming Kwanzaa holiday with songs and stories that discuss the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Registration required.
Pre-Kwanzaa Holiday Celebration & Marketplace by Africa International House
Dec. 20, 2025
- Address: 5531 South Russell Drive, Chicago
- Cost: Free
This pre-celebration of Kwanzaa marks the first principle of Kwanzaa, or Umoja, with a bustling marketplace, live music, delicious African and Caribbean food and more. Registration required.
Kwanzaa 2025 Celebration at Malcolm X College
Dec. 26, 2025-Jan. 1, 2026
- Address: 1900 W Jackson Blvd., Chicago
- Cost: Free
This seven-day Kwanzaa celebration includes a children’s reading circle, drum call, vendor’s market and more entertainment that will be fun for the whole family.
Chi-Village Kwanzaa Celebration
Event date coming soon to the event website.
- Address: 10201 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Chicago
- Cost: Free
All ages can celebrate the second Annual Chi-Village Kwanzaa Celebration with free workshops, Watoto station, wellness station and more. RVSP recommended.
Kwanzaa at Bronzeville Children’s Museum
Dec. 26, 2025
- Address: 9301 S. Stony Island Ave., Chicago
- Cost: $5/person, free/members
Celebrate Kwanzaa with crafts, music, storytelling, singing, face painting and a special visit from the BCM Kwanzaa King.
Kwanzaa Celebration at Robert Crown Community Center
Dec. 26, 2025
- Address: 1801 Main St., Evanston
- Cost: Free
Celebrate Kwanzaa with an artisan marketplace, food, face painting, arts and crafts and performances.
Kwanzaa Celebration at Oak Park Public Library – Main Library
Dec. 30, 2025
- Address: 834 Lake St., Oak Park
- Cost: Free
Enjoy a celebration in honor of Kwanzaa at the Oak Park Library. Find more details soon on the event webpage. Registration required.
Map of Kwanzaa events for kids in Chicagoland
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