A group of sorority sisters hope their annual event will become a local tradition that builds on the 41-year history of Kwanzaa -- a seven-day holiday created to help reunite Africans and their descendents scattered around the world.

The local chapter of Zeta Phi Beta invites the public to come Saturday afternoon to learn, celebrate and socialize during its third annual community Kwanzaa celebration.

“It started back in the civil rights era -- it really was created to help African-Americans get reacquainted with the African culture,” said Monica Taylor, president of the local Beta Iota Zeta chapter of the sorority. She and about 15 other area women make up the local chapter.

Whoever attends Saturday’s event at the Normal Public Library can expect an overview of Kwanzaa’s history, a lesson in who generally celebrates it and the meaning behind Kwanzaa’s seven principles. Refreshments also will be provided.