Why Kwanzaa Is Celebrated
Kwanzaa is celebrated to honor African heritage and culture. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga as a way for African American communities to reflect on shared values and history.
What Kwanzaa Celebrates
The holiday centers on seven principles called the Nguzo Saba, including unity, self-determination, collective work, and purpose. Each night, families light a candle on the kinara and discuss one principle.
How Kwanzaa Is Observed
Families gather for meals, storytelling, and music. Homes are decorated with symbols such as the mkeka mat, kinara candleholder, and mazao fruits and vegetables. Gift-giving often focuses on books and heritage items.
Kwanzaa runs from December 26 to January 1 and is observed by millions worldwide. For more background, see Smithsonian Magazine.
