The Kwanzaa 2025 celebration is set to take place at The Dock Bookshop, a Black-owned business located at 6637 Meadowbrook Dr, Fort Worth, from December 26 through January 1. This annual event, established by Dr. Mulana Kerenga in the 1960s, aims to honor traditional African and African-American cultural values through a series of engaging activities, including music, performances, and storytelling.
From December 26 to January 1, festivities will run daily from 2 PM to 4 PM, featuring a Kwanzaa Kids Zone filled with arts and crafts, games, pizza, and storytime. All events are free, family-friendly, and will include a ceremonial candlelighting. Many activities will also be streamed live on DockLive.tv.
Event Schedule
Friday, December 26: Day 1 – Umoja (Unity)
Join the Kwanzaa Collective from 6:30 PM to 9 PM for an evening filled with food, music, and inspiring speakers.
Saturday, December 27: Day 2 – Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
This day features a celebration hosted by Muhammad Mosque No. 52 from 1 PM to 5 PM, including author discussions, arts and crafts, drumming, family storytelling, and more. The African Village Drummers will perform from 3 PM to 5 PM, followed by additional live entertainment, food, and vendors until 9 PM.
Sunday, December 28: Day 3 – Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
Special church services will precede and follow the main event at The Dock from 1 PM to 5 PM. Pastor Kyev Tatum will lead a Kwanzaa Celebration Service at New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church from 11 AM to 1 PM, and Pastor Bell will host a Kwanzaa Celebration at Greater St. Stephen First Church at 6 PM.
Monday, December 29: Day 4 – Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
Ujamaa Night will take place from 6:30 PM to 9 PM, featuring African drumming, food, and special speakers from various organizations, including 4 Da Brothers & Sisterhood Foundation and Brotherhood.
Tuesday, December 30: Day 5 – Nia (Purpose)
A Kwanzaa Candle Lighting Ceremony will be held from 6 PM to 7 PM, followed by the Dock Open Mic: Kwanzaa Edition at 7:30 PM, hosted by Mike Guinn.
Wednesday, December 31: Day 6 – Kuumba (Creativity)
An art show showcasing local visual artists will take place from 4 PM to 7 PM.
Thursday, January 1: Day 7 – Imani (Faith)
This day serves as a personal time for rest and reflection, with many individuals hosting their own Karamu Feast. This communal meal celebrates African heritage, unity, and culture, featuring traditional dishes that symbolize abundance and ancestral connections. Commonly served items include black-eyed peas and collard greens, creating a rich tapestry of culinary heritage.
