Kwanzaa is an African tradition celebrating values of family, community, commerce, responsibility, and self-improvement. Kwanzaa is not a religion based holiday and does not replace Christmas among the African culture.

Kwanzaa means "first fruit of the harvest," and is a celebration of African people and cultures. Kwanzaa is celebrated December 26 through January 1.

Decorations - You should decorate your home to bring the spirit of Kwanzaa to your space. The main decoration found in every home celebrating Kwanzaa is the Kinara. The Kinara is a candle holder that holds seven candles that represent the seven principles which are the foundation of Kwanzaa. The colors of Kwanzaa are black, red and green. You can find streamers; balloons, cloths, flowers and African prints in these colors and you can hang and display them around your home.

Seven Principles - Nguzo Saba are the 7 principles celebrated during Kwanzaa. Each of these principles is represented by the candles found on the Kinara.

• 1. Umoja (oo-MO-jah) - Unity stresses the importance of togetherness for the family and the community, which is reflected in the African saying, "I am We," or "I am because We are."



• 2. Kujichagulia (koo-gee-cha-goo-LEE-yah) - Self-Determination requires that we define our common interests and make decisions that are in the best interest of our family and community.



• 3. Ujima (oo-GEE-mah) - Collective Work and Responsibility reminds us of our obligation to the past, present and future, and that we have a role to play in the community, society, and world.



• 4. Ujamaa (oo-JAH-mah) - Cooperative economics emphasizes our collective economic strength and encourages us to meet common needs through mutual support.



• 5. Nia (NEE-yah) - Purpose encourages us to look within ourselves and to set personal goals that are beneficial to the community.



• 6. Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) - Creativity makes use of our creative energies to build and maintain a strong and vibrant community.



• 7. Imani (ee-MAH-nee) - Faith focuses on honoring the best of our traditions, draws upon the best in ourselves, and helps us strive for a higher level of life for humankind, by affirming our self-worth and confidence in our ability to succeed and triumph in righteous struggle.

Feast - The traditional Kwanzaa feast is called Karamu. The Karamu usually takes place on December 31. The location of the Karamu being held should be decorated in black, green and red with a Kinara present. Ceremonies and cultural experiences are highly recommended and encouraged. The food should be placed in the center of the room on an Mkeka, which is a large placemat made of straw. During the feast, an informative and entertaining performance should be given. The program should traditionally include a welcoming, remembering, reassessment, recommitment and rejoicing which conclude with a farewell statement and a call for greater unity.

African cultures run very deep and have amazing beliefs and traditions. Kwanzaa is a time to get together and celebrate the suffering and rebirth of the African cultures. Follow these easy traditions above and you will sure put on an unforgettable Kwanza celebration.