The African American Museum in Hempstead will hold its annual Kwanzaa Celebration on Sunday, Dec. 30, announced Nassau County Executive Thomas S. Gulotta.

As part of the celebration, scheduled from 2 to 5 p.m., Willie Houston, museum director, will perform a candlelighting ceremony and a presentation on the spirit of Kwanzaa. This year's program includes a libation by Xeny Symara Wilson deBrianu.

Entertainment scheduled for the event features performances by the New Life Entertainment of the Dance Space of Roosevelt; African step dancing performed by the Xenzeta Vision Dance Group; poetry by Genevieve Morales and African Drumming performed by Panama Master Drummer.

Kwanzaa is a seven-day cultural celebration that takes its name from the KiSwahili phrase meaning "celebration of the first fruits of harvest." The holiday celebrates and reinforces culture, family and community and is observed as a time of historical reflection.

The Kwanzaa Celebration is co-sponsored by Zeta Phi Beta, Friends of the African American Museum, Long Island Black Artists Association, and the Friends for Long Island's Heritage. Admission is free and all are welcome.

The African American Museum, operated by the Museum Services Division of the Nassau County Department of Recreation, Parks and Support Services, is located at 110 North Franklin Street in Hempstead. For additional information, one may call 572-0730.