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 held its first Kwanzaa Fest in Durham back in 1986. Kwanzaa Fest is held every year on January 1st celebrating the principle of Imani or Faith. Mostly hosted at the Durham Armory, we have also hosted at Hayti Heritage Center and Walltown Park Recreation Center. In 2022, we were thrilled to celebrate our inaugural Kwanzaa event in Raleigh, highlighting the principle of Ujima,
which focuses on collective work and responsibility. This event took place
at C3 at the Venue.
Baba Chuck Davis emceed Kwanzaa Fest each year until 2016, Pierce
Freelon emceed in 2017, and founder member Venita Allen has hosted
since 2018. In 2021, Venita and other AADE members hosted Kwanzaa Fest
online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kwanzaa Fest presents a fantastic chance to celebrate our communities and the goodness of our efforts. It serves as a vibrant marketplace and an energetic performing arts concert, featuring dance, music, poetry, and a variety of other performances. Artists and performance groups from the area unite with the African American Dance Ensemble for a meaningful celebration filled with love, sharing, and the encouragement of entrepreneurship as we welcome the new year.
