Galloway, N.J. – Stockton University will commemorate the beginning of Kwanzaa on Friday, Dec. 5, in the Campus Center Event Room. 

The pre-celebration is a tradition that was founded by Distinguished Professor of Social Work and Africana Studies Patricia Reid-Merritt and is sponsored by the student organization Unified Black Student Society (UBSS) and the Africana Studies program. 

Celebrations will begin at 5 p.m. and include a libation ceremony, outlining the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa during a candlelighting ceremony and dance performances. The event is free and open to the community. 

Kwanzaa begins on Dec. 26 and will conclude Jan. 1, 2026.