Kwanzaa kinara candles and African decorations
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Kwanzaa 2025: African American Celebration Guide

December 22, 20247 min read

Celebrate Kwanzaa from December 26 to January 1 with the seven principles, kinara candles, and African heritage traditions.

Kwanzaa: Celebrating African Heritage

Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration honoring African heritage in African American culture. Created in 1966, it runs from December 26 to January 1.

Kwanzaa 2025-2026

  • Start: Friday, December 26, 2025
  • End: Thursday, January 1, 2026
  • Seven days of celebration
  • The Seven Principles (Nguzo Saba)

    Each day focuses on one principle:

  • Umoja: (Unity) - December 26
  • Kujichagulia: (Self-Determination) - December 27
  • Ujima: (Collective Work) - December 28
  • Ujamaa: (Cooperative Economics) - December 29
  • Nia: (Purpose) - December 30
  • Kuumba: (Creativity) - December 31
  • Imani: (Faith) - January 1
  • Symbols of Kwanzaa

    Kinara

    Seven-branched candle holder with:

  • 3 red candles (struggle)
  • 3 green candles (future)
  • 1 black candle (people)
  • Other Symbols

  • Mkeka (mat)
  • Mazao (crops/fruits)
  • Kikombe cha Umoja (unity cup)
  • Zawadi (gifts)
  • Bendera (flag)
  • Daily Celebrations

  • Lighting kinara candles
  • Discussing the day's principle
  • Pouring libations
  • Sharing meals
  • Exchanging gifts
  • Karamu Feast

    On December 31, families gather for:

  • African and soul food dishes
  • Cultural performances
  • Storytelling
  • Community celebration
  • Celebrate African heritage with VIPCalendar!

    Tags

    #Kwanzaa#African American#December#Heritage#Culture

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