Tuesday marked the first day of Kwanzaa.

African Americans observe Kwanzaa from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, celebrating their cultural heritage and traditional values.

The Bendera — the black, red and green Kwanzaa flag — is now raised in front of Buffalo City Hall.

This year, several events are taking place each night from 7-9 p.m. in the Queen City to commemorate the weeklong holiday. 

Performing Arts High School and the Delavan-Grider Community Center are hosting those events, which are primarily centered around African-American culture.

"We would like to encourage everyone to come out,” said Jomo Akono, of Buffalo. “It is family-friendly. Every night is free. As we push forward here in Buffalo, we want to be the shining example for the world to continue our pursuit in equity, justice [and] uplifting everyone else."