The YMI Cultural Center will celebrate Kwanzaa on Saturday, December 29 th at 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm in the Ray Auditorium 39 South Market Street, Asheville . This year's featured artist is Chuck Davis African American Dance Ensemble from Durham NC . www.africanamericandanceensemble.org

Kwanzaa is a unique African American celebration with focus on the traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce, and self-improvement.

Kwanzaa is neither political nor religious. Kwanzaa means “first fruits of the harvest” Kwanzaa is based on the Nguzo Saba (seven principles), founded in California in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga.

 Its mission is to preserve and share the finest traditions of African and African American dance and music through research, education and entertainment. With the motto, "Peace, love, respect for everybody," the Ensemble celebrates traditional African culture, aesthetics and values as resources to encourage interracial cooperation, cross-cultural understanding and societal analysis.

 The event accepts donations, $5.00 per person, to support the YMICC's Arts and Education Programs.