Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center, in collaboration with Grandmothers Who Help, Inc., will present a new event celebrating African American Heritage at the Bankhead Theater on Saturday, January 11 from 10am to 3pm. This year we will have Apryl Chauhan as our special guest speaker.

The event falls between Kwanzaa and African-American History Month and is just prior to the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. In addition to explaining and presenting the traditions of the Kwanzaa holiday, which focuses on building unity and community, there will be music, drumming, dancing, hands-on crafts, a historical display, and an African Safari booth. A historical display will celebrate the contributions of African people in America, from Sojourner Truth to Neil deGrasse Tyson, Barack Obama and more.

Begun in 1966, Kwanzaa is derived from “matunda ya kwanza” which means “first fruits” in Swahili. The family-centered celebration typically includes songs, dances, drumming, storytelling and a large meal. On each of seven nights, candles are lit symbolizing the seven principles which contribute to building a reinforcing a sense of community and unity…

Free Event