Ohio State pre-Kwanzaa celebration is Friday

The 18th Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration and Feast at The Ohio State University is from 4 to 10 p.m. Friday (12/5) at the Frank W. Hale Jr. Black Cultural Center, 153 W. 12th Ave.

The celebration will feature a cultural marketplace, panel discussion and artistic performances. C. Katunge Mimy, a poet, dancer and the citywide coordinator of Kwanzaa celebrations in Newark, N.J., will speak at 6:40 p.m. The program will conclude with a cross-cultural buffet of African, Caribbean and African American foods at 7:20 p.m.

Kwanzaa is a nonreligious holiday that celebrates African American family, community and culture. The seven-day festival is officially observed Dec. 26 through New Year’s Day. More than two million people celebrate Kwanzaa worldwide.

WHAT:Ohio State University’s 18th Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration and Feast.

WHEN:4 to 10 p.m., Friday (12/5).
WHERE:The Frank W. Hale Jr. Black Cultural Center, 153 W. 12th Ave.
WHY:To give the Ohio State community the opportunity to celebrate Kwanzaa before the winter break.