MNH 2012 Kwanzaa: First Fruits of the Harvest

The American Museum of Natural History celebrates its 34th annual Kwanzaa celebration with Kwanzaa 2012: First Fruits of the Harvest. The event celebrates the rich traditions of Kwanzaa and honors the holiday’s seven guiding principles. The festival will include a special interview about Karamu (African Feast) with pioneering restaurateur B. Smith, family-friendly hands-on activities, and an international marketplace. Restoration Dance Theatre Company and Balance Dance Theatre, led by acclaimed choreographer Obediah Wright, will perform in an exciting program that also includes newcomers Soul Steps and Underground System Afrobeat. A special screening of The Black Candle, narrated by world-renowned poet Maya Angelou, closes the day. The film is a landmark documentary that uses Kwanzaa as a vehicle to explore and celebrate the African-American experience.

The Presenting Sponsor of the Museum’s cultural programming is MetLife Foundation.

Support for Kwanzaa 2012! is made possible, in part, by the

May and Samuel Rudin Family Foundation, Inc., and the family of Frederick H. Leonhardt.

Kwanzaa 2012! is co-presented with Community Works and New Heritage Theatre Works.

The Kwanzaa Marketplace is organized by the Harlem Arts Alliance.

This event was created in collaboration with the James Beard Foundation. 


The Media Partner of KWANZAA 2012: First Fruits of the Harvest is WBGO Jazz 88.3FM.



Saturday, December 29, from noon to 5 pm

Milstein Hall of Ocean Life.

Kwanzaa International Marketplace: Birds of the World, Grand Gallery, Hall of North American Forests, and Warburg Hall of New York State Environment

ADMISSIONPerformances and activities are free with Museum admission. Suggested admission to the Museum is $19 for adults, $14.50 for students and seniors, and $10.50 for children.

CONTACT    For more information, the public should call 212-769-5315 or visit www.amnh.org/kwanzaa