Malcolm X College to Host Weeklong Kwanzaa Celebration and Marketplace

Malcolm X College to Host Weeklong Kwanzaa Celebration and Marketplace (Chicago, IL) – Malcolm X College will once again transform its campus into a hub of culture, commerce and community as it hosts a free, public Kwanzaa celebration and marketplace from Dec. 26, 2025, through Jan. 1, 2026.

The weeklong event, held daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the college’s campus at 1900 W. Jackson Blvd., centers on this year’s theme, “Building and Sustaining Community One Principle at a Time.”

See the full story in the Chicagoland Journal

The celebration is inspired by the Nguzo Saba, the seven principles of Kwanzaa, with each day highlighting one principle through performances, workshops and family-friendly programming.

Daily programming begins at noon with a Drum Call, libation, a recounting of Kwanzaa’s history, the lighting of the candles and reflection on the principle of the day. Live performances follow at approximately 1 p.m.

In addition to cultural programming, the event features a marketplace showcasing local artisans and vendors selling handmade jewelry, African clothing, African-inspired art, drums, pottery, leather goods, traditional musical instruments, specialty soaps, candles and more. Organizers say the marketplace is designed to uplift small businesses and reinforce the Kwanzaa principle of cooperative economics.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the college for continuing the tradition.

“I commend Malcolm X College for uniting our communities and honoring our heritage through the celebration of Kwanzaa,” Johnson said in a statement. “The seven days of Kwanzaa remind us of the enduring values of unity, self-determination and collective progress.”

Dr. David Sanders, president of Malcolm X College, said the annual event reflects both the institution’s mission and the broader spirit of the city.