Kwanzaa 2025: Opening Ceremonies & WI Black Chamber of Commerce Events

On Friday, December 26, 2025, the Wisconsin Black Historical Society, 2620 W. Center St., will host Milwaukee’s opening night Kwanzaa ceremony.

Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration of African American culture and heritage observed from December 26 to January 1. It culminates in gift-giving and a communal feast of faith, known as Karamu Ya Imani. The holiday is anchored in the seven principles of Kwanzaa, or Nguzo Saba.

The first night, focusing on Umoja (unity), will be held at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society. The remaining nights will honor: Kujichagulia (self-determination); Ujima (collective work and responsibility); Ujamaa (cooperative economics); Nia (purpose); Kuumba (creativity); and Imani (faith).

Schedule of Events:

Tuesday – December 26

(Umoja – Unity)

(6:00pm)

Traditional Kwanzaa Opening Ceremony

2620 W. Center Street, Milwaukee, WI 53206

Wisconsin Historical Society Museum

Wednesday – December 27

(Kujichagulia – Self Determination)

(6:00pm)

Africans on the Move

Wisconsin African American Women’s Center,

3020 W. Vliet Street, Milwaukee, WI

Thursday – December 28

(Ujima – Collective Work and Responsibility)

(6:00pm – 9:00pm)

Partying with Elders! We are asking Generation X’s and Millennials to bring out the Baby Boomers (your parents and Grandparents and party to the sounds of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s

Friday – December 29

(Ujamaa – Cooperative Economics)

(4:00pm – 8:00pm)

Kwanzaa Family Festival

Vendors- please call: (414) 873-401

4030 N. 29th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53216.

Saturday – December 30 (Nia- Purpose) TBA

Sunday – December 31 (Kuumba – Creativity)

(8:00pm – 2:00am)

New Year’s Eve Zumbathon!

Wisconsin Black Chamber of Commerce, Inc.