GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The West Michigan Jewels Of Africa LLC (WMJOA LLC) Traditional African Drum and Dance Group invites the community to Grand Rapids’ Kwanzaa Holiday Celebration beginning Dec. 26.

WMJOA LLC will host its third biannual “Soul Stroll Candle Lighting Ceremony,” which kicks off the community treasure hunt supporting Black-owned businesses in the area.

From 6 to 7:30 p.m., the free event at 1541 Eastern Ave. SE includes live music, displays, libations, the lighting of the Kinara (candleholder) and a hot drink bar.

Attendees can also expect the release of the “R you Smart? Kwanzaa Proclamation,” a global call to action recognized by Grand Rapids Mayor David LaGrand.

Kwanzaa is a seven-day non-religious African American cultural holiday created and celebrated in the United States since 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga.

The holiday reaffirms African roots, instills pride and honors African heritage while promoting access to buying Black.

All are welcome to visit and experience the variety of Black-owned businesses through Jan. 1.

“The Kwanzaa Soul Stroll” is a community treasure hunt for patrons to support Black-owned businesses on the stretch between Wealthy Street SE and 36th Street.

Participants will submit their total businesses visited by 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, on the sixth day of Kwanzaa.

Gifts (zawadi, the Swahili word for gifts) will be awarded to the winning contestant. Winners do not have to be present to earn gifts.

The “Grand Rapids Kwanzaa Soul Stroll 2025“ holiday festivities are hosted by community participants, WMJOA, LLC, the African Drum and Dance Parent Association (ADDPA) of Flint, and the Kuungana African Drum and Dance Group in Flint.

The event is free, but organizers encourage attendees to reserve a spot on Eventbrite.