NJPAC to Celebrate 50 Years of Kwanzaa with Free Community Events

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) celebrated Kwanzaa where NJPAC's Prudential Hall Lobby will be transformed into a Kwanzaa Artisan Marketplace and children of all ages participated in performances and art projects at the Kwanzaa Children's Festival - a FREE event for the community.

Forces of Nature Dance Theater put on a spectacular performance featuring Les Nubians. The seven principles of Kwanzaa being unity, self-determination, working together, supporting each other, purpose, creativity and faith were explained to the attendees.

The Tribute To The Elders, honored Newark Community members Assemblyman William D. Payne, Joan Whitlow who was the first black woman hired as a full-time reporter at The Star-Ledger, Katunge "Mama" Mimy, educator, counselor, and performer of the African folklore and dance received a staff and scarf- honoring their stature in the community. 2016 marks 50 years of Kwanzaa.

Kwanzaa begins on December 26 and lasts for seven days, one for each of the Nguzo Saba ("seven principles" in Swahili). Kwanzaa is a celebration of community, family and culture.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), located in downtown Newark, New Jersey, is among the largest performing arts centers in the United States and is the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey - where Great Performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state's and the world's best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 10 million visitors (including over 1.5 million children) since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Visit njpac.org or call 1-888-GO-NJPAC for more information.