Broward’s African American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) is inviting residents to kick off the holiday season with Soulful Christmas, a vibrant weekend of music, art, storytelling, and cultural traditions designed to bring families together in the spirit of unity and joy.
Over two days, the event will transform AARLCC into a tropical winter wonderland, offering a free Soulful Christmas Concert on Friday evening and a Community Day of Celebration on Saturday afternoon. Organizers say the festive lineup honors the history and heritage of Fort Lauderdale’s historic Sistrunk community while creating a modern holiday tradition for all ages.
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, Dec. 12
The free concert, presented by AARLCC and Hued Songs, is set for 7:00–8:30 p.m. in the library’s lobby and auditorium. Inspired by classic holiday shows like The Nutcracker and Swan Lake, the program blends live music, storytelling, and community voices to celebrate the cultural spirit of the season.
“Soulful Christmas is a time when our entire community comes together to celebrate the season as one big family,” said Aneatra King, Community Library Manager, Senior, Broward County Library – AARLCC. “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.”
The performance features Artistic Director Kunya Rowley and Musical Director King Friday, with appearances by Ja’Nia Harden, Erron Cooper, Brittany Graham, and Wilkie Ferguson III. Audiences can expect reimagined versions of “This Christmas,” “Someday at Christmas,” and other seasonal favorites.
“This performance fills me with joy every year – it’s become a celebration of hope, laughter, and incredible artistry,” said Rowley. “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.”
Soulful Christmas Community Day – Saturday, Dec. 13
Festivities continue from 1:30–5:30 p.m., with activities spread across multiple rooms throughout AARLCC. The afternoon opens with a live Soulful Christmas Concert by Hued Songs from 12:00–1:30 p.m., followed by hands-on workshops, performances, and cultural programs.
Highlights include:
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Photos with Santa
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Holiday storytelling and sing-alongs
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Gift giveaways (while supplies last)
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Snapology LEGO® ornament making
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Delou Africa dance, drum, art, and folktales
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Super Soul Steppers
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Performances of “Gee Whiz, It’s Christmas!” and “Go Tell It on the Mountain”
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Ugly Christmas sweater decorating
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Broward Sheriff’s Office video game truck, therapy dog visit, and mounted unit
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Holiday canvas art
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STEM and engineering activities
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Wags and Tales photos with therapy dogs Chewie & Lola
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Face painting and crafts
AARLCC’s Soulful Christmas celebrates the resilience, creativity, and holiday traditions of the African American community, aiming to bridge generations through shared stories, music, and cultural expression. The event continues the library’s mission to uplift, educate, and unite Broward County families through the arts.
Both days are free and open to the public.
