Kwanzaa celebrates the integral parts of our lives that we sometimes forget to appreciate: family, community, and culture. Several local events honor Kwanzaa's seven principles.

On Wednesday, December 26, the Phillis Wheatley Library (33 Dr. Samuel McCree Way, 428-8212) throws a Kwanzaa Celebration focusing on Umoja (Unity), with crafts and community talks from 3-5 p.m. On the same day, the Baobab Cultural Center (728 University Ave, 563-2145) celebrates Kwanzaa 6-8 p.m.

Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) is the focus on Thursday, December 27, and the Memorial Art Gallery (500 University Ave, 276-8900) holds a Kwanzaa Day with free family activities and a tours, lasting 4-9 p.m.

Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility) is the principle Friday, December 28, and the Rochester Museum and Science Center (657 East Ave, 271-4320) and the Kwanzaa Coalition host "Kwanzaa: An African Celebration of Family, Community, and Culture," a two-hour show on with dancing and audience participation at 5:30 p.m.

Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), is the word Saturday, December 29, and the North Street Community Center's (700 North St, 428-7149) Kwanzaa Celebration includes African drumming and dancing 5-8 p.m.

Nia (Purpose), is celebrated Sunday, December 30, at St Luke Tabernacle Community Church (1261 Dewey Ave, 271-2870) 3-6 p.m.

Kuumba (Creativity) on Monday, December 31, will be the focus of a Kwanzaa celebration at Wilson Commencement Park (251 Joseph Ave, 263-7930) 4-8 p.m.

And finally Imani (Faith), is the final principle on Tuesday, January 1. Celebrate with your family! - BY SUSANNAH SNIDER