Kwanzaa is a seven day, Pan-African celebration observed by many African Americans. It emphasizes family, community, and culture. Kwanzaa starts the day after Christmas, December 26, and continues through New Year's Day, January 1. In many households that celebrate Kwanzaa, it has become a part of the Christmas season.

The Kwanzaa celebration revolves around the Seven Principals (Nguzo Saba). Each of which is celebrated on one of the Seven Days of Kwanzaa.

During the seven days of Kwanzaa, a candleholder (Kinara) is displayed with seven candles (Mishumaa Saba). Each day another candle is lit in observance of the principal celebrated on that day. It is customary to give gifts to children during Kwanzaa. The most appropriate Kwanzaa gifts include books and items which symbolize African heritage. During Kwanzaa, homes are decorated with displays containing the symbols of Kwanzaa: crops (Mazoa), corn (Muhinda), a straw mat (Mkeka), a candleholder with seven candles (Kinara, Mishumaa Saba), the Unity Cup (Kikombe cha Umoja), and Gifts (Zawadi). The Kwanzaa flag (Bendera), made up of the three Kwanzaa colors - black, red, and green, may also be displayed. Other Kwanzaa decorations may include items like baskets, African art, and African cloth, which reflect African heritage.

Kwanzaa was created in1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a college professor, African scholar, and activists. It was created to help the African American community preserve, revitalize, and promote their culture and heritage. The holiday is based on ancient African harvest festivals. The word Kwanzaa is derived from the Swahili phrase, "matunda ya kwanza", which means first fruits. Since its inception in the US, the celebration has spread to African communities all over the world.

Note: This holiday is one of Calendar Mine's over 500 built-in observances.

See Also

Holiday Catalogue

American (USA) Observances