Kwanzaa

African-American culture · celebration · community · traditions

Seven days of meaning. Kwanzaa lasts from December 26 to January 1, and each day focuses on a different value like unity, self-determination, and creativity. These seven principles help families think about what matters most to them.

African roots. Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by activist Maulana Karenga, who studied harvest festivals from West, East, and Southeast Africa and brought those traditions together into something new for African-American families.

The big feast. On the sixth day of Kwanzaa, families gather for a communal feast called Karamu, where they share food, stories, and celebrate together just like harvest festivals have done for thousands of years.

Growing celebration. Between 500,000 and 2 million Americans celebrate Kwanzaa today, making it an important way for families to honor their heritage and strengthen their communities.