Albany celebrates final day of Kwanzaa

ALBANY, Ga. – Wednesday was the final of a seven day celebration of Kwanzaa, ending it off with a very high note with the “Planting the Seed” ceremony and a drum circle.

Kwanzaa, a celebration of African American cultural heritage and traditional values, was honored in Albany with a vibrant seven-day observance.

The festivities culminated in a meaningful “Planting the Seed” ceremony, where participants of all ages gathered at the overlook to water cups filled with soil, symbolizing growth and unity.

The event also featured lively drum circles before and after the ceremony, filling the air with rhythmic beats that inspired others to join in, their faces lighting up with joy.

“You know, we wanted to make sure that this wasn’t just about sitting around talking about, you know, the problems. And, we got to come together. This was more engaging. It was an activity. We got a drum circle happening right now. So, people actually take part in activities. And, the last part that we’ve done is to seed planting ceremony where we’ve planted seeds, and we’re going to watch them and nurture them over the next year, bring them back for the next Kwanzaa, and talk about how we apply the principles throughout the year,” said Adam Inyang, Albany resident.

Celebrating tradition across generations, young and old came together for the final day of Kwanzaa.

Through shared reflections and unity, they honored their culture, striving to keep its legacy alive while building a brighter future.

“So, Albany is dealing with a number of crises, and the young people are the ones suffering the most. And, so, if we can all get together and say, you know what, we agree that we need better things for the youth. We agree we need these simple things. Then I’m all for it. I don’t care what name it takes. It could be Kwanzaa, it could be, you know, whatever. But, the principles they stance actually help the young people, help the community as a whole. So, that’s what’s most important,” said Inyang.

As the soil is nurtured and seeds grow, so does the community’s commitment to Kwanzaa’s values, ensuring they remain a guide for progress and unity throughout the year.

Gabe Hutton reporting.

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