African American Dance Ensemble
After a wondrous celebration of the 40th Anniversary of AADE Kwanzaa Fest, we were faced with the problem of patrons trying to leave the Morgan street parking garage.
Anyone who paid to exit is eligible for a refund, which can be requested using this form by clicking here
We thank you all for attending Kwanzaa Fest and hope to see you again.
The African American Dance Ensemble proudly hosted its inaugural Kwanzaa Festival in Durham in 1986. Kwanzaa Fest takes place annually on January 1st, honoring the principle of Imani, which means Faith. While primarily held at the Durham Armory, we have also celebrated at the Hayti Heritage Center and Walltown Par Recreation Center. In 2022, we were excited to mark our first Kwanzaa event in Raleigh, emphasizing the
principle of Ujima, which is about collective work and responsibility. This
event occurred at C3 at the Venue.
Baba Chuck Davis served as the emcee for Kwanzaa Fest each year until
2016, followed by Pierce Freelon in 2017, and since 2018, founding member
Venita Allen has taken on the hosting duties. In 2021, due to the COVID-19
pandemic, Venita and other members of AADE hosted Kwanzaa Fest
online.
Kwanzaa Fest offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our communities and the positive outcomes of our efforts. It acts as a lively marketplace and an exciting performing arts concert, showcasing dance, music, poetry, and a range of other performances. Local artists and performance groups collaborate with the African American Dance Ensemble for a heartfelt celebration filled with love, sharing, and the promotion of entrepreneurship as we usher in the New Year.
