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Broward’s African American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) invites the community to experience Soulful Christmas, a lively weekend celebration of music, art, and cultural heritage that embodies the spirit of joy, unity, and the holiday season.
This festive, family-friendly event transforms AARLCC into a tropical winter wonderland filled with creativity and community pride. Over two memorable days, guests will enjoy a free Soulful Christmas Concert on Friday evening and a Community Day of Celebration on Saturday afternoon—two signature events designed to uplift, inspire, and bring people of all ages together.
Generous sponsorship is provided by The Friends of the Broward County African American Research Library and Cultural Center, Wayne and Lucretia Weiner, Walmart, Liberal Black Firefighters Association, Kiwanis Club of Tamarac, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, United Way of Broward County, South Florida Hunger Coalition, and Starbucks (Plantation Towne Square).
Soulful Christmas Concert
Friday, December 12 | 7:00–8:30 PM
Location: AARLCC Lobby & Auditorium
Presented by: AARLCC & Hued Songs
Free and open to the public
Located in the heart of Broward County, Soulful Christmas reimagines the holiday performance tradition—combining live music, storytelling, and community voices into a lively celebration of culture. Inspired by classic seasonal shows like The Nutcracker and Swan Lake, Soulful Christmas aims to create a cherished holiday tradition rooted in the spirit and history of Fort Lauderdale’s historic Sistrunk community.
“Soulful Christmas is a time when our entire community comes together to celebrate the season as one big family. Local organizations, businesses, and individuals unite with the African American Research Library and Cultural Center to ensure that every child leaves not only with a present but also with the presence of joy. The smiles throughout the building make this one of my favorite events of the year.”— Aneatra King, Community Library Manager, Senior, Broward County Library – AARLCC.
This vibrant celebration continues AARLCC’s mission to educate, uplift, and unite the community through the power of art and cultural expression.
Performance Highlights
- Artistic Director: Kunya Rowley
- Musical Director: King Friday
Featured Performers
- Ja’Nia Harden — Jazz & R&B Artist
- Erron Cooper — Gospel Vocalist
- Brittany Graham — Soprano
- Wilkie Ferguson III — Broadway/TV Performer
Reimagined Holiday Classics
- This Christmas
- Someday at Christmas
- …and more
“This performance fills me with joy every year – it’s become a celebration of hope, laughter, and incredible artistry. Our cast and band are phenomenal professional artists who pour their hearts into every note. I’m deeply grateful for our partnership with The African American Research Library & Cultural Center as we present our third year in Broward. Just as The Nutcracker has become a holiday tradition, my hope is that Soulful Christmas will become the annual celebration our community eagerly anticipates each season.”– Kunya Rowley, Executive Artistic Director, Hued Songs
Soulful Christmas Community Day of Celebration
Saturday, December 13 | 1:30–5:30 PM
Location: AARLCC — Café, Ellyn F. Walters Conference Room, Gallery B, Lobby, Michael Bienes Seminar Room #2, and the Harambee Room
Free and open to the public
The celebration continues with an afternoon filled with community, creativity, and holiday fun. The day begins with a live Soulful Christmas Concert by Hued Songs from 12:00–1:30 PM, followed by hands-on activities, performances, and cultural experiences.
Event Highlights
Photos with Santa
Holiday storytelling & sing-alongs
Gift giveaways (while supplies last)
Snapology: LEGO® Christmas Ornament Making
Delou Africa performance (Dance, Drum, Music, Art, Folktales & Culture)
Super Soul Steppers performance
“Gee Whiz, It’s Christmas!”
Go Tell It on the Mountain
Additional performances celebrating Black holiday musical traditions
“Marvelous” Ugly Christmas Sweater Decorating
Broward Sheriff’s Office Video Game Truck, Therapy Dog & Mounted Police Unit
Holiday Canvas Art
STEM & engineering activities
Wags and Tales: Photos with festive therapy dogs Chewie & Lola
Face painting & holiday crafts for all ages
AARLC’s Soulful Christmas honors the creativity, resilience, and joy of African American holiday culture through music, storytelling, and shared traditions. Its mission is to celebrate and preserve African American holiday traditions, bridge generations through shared stories and song, integrate community voices into performance art, and establish a lasting holiday tradition for families throughout Broward County.
About the African American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC)
The African American Research Library and Cultural Center is one of Broward County’s premier cultural institutions, dedicated to preserving and celebrating African American history, culture, and literature. Through dynamic exhibitions, educational programs, cultural events, and community partnerships, AARLCC serves as a vital hub for creativity, learning, and cultural exchange.
