Kwanzaa is a seven-day African American and Pan-African holiday celebrated from December 26 to January 1. Kwanzaa is a cultural celebration that honours African heritage, family and community.

The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa

Each day of Kwanzaa focuses on one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa:

1. Umoja (Unity),
2. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination),
3. Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility),
4. Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics),
5. Nia (Purpose),
6. Kuumba (Creativity)
7. Imani (Faith). 

Kwanzaa Symbols

Kwanzaa has several important symbols, including

• the Kinara (candelabrum),
• Mishumaa Saba (seven candles),
• Mazao (crops),
• Muhindi (corncobs),
• Kikombe Cha Umoja (unity cup),
• Nguzo Saba (the seven principles)
• displayed on a mkeka (placemat). .

Kwanzaa Activities

There are many ways to celebrate Kwanzaa, including lighting the kinara each night, discussing the principles of Kwanzaa, sharing a traditional African American meal, exchanging gifts, and participating in community events. 

Traditional Kwanzaa Meal

A traditional Kwanzaa meal often includes foods from the African diaspora, such as black-eyed peas, collard greens, sweet potato pie, and fruit salad.