How to Plan Kwanzaa With Your Family

Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday celebrated from December 26 to January 1. According to Kwanzaa.org and the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, it was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. It is based on seven principles, one for each day. Families celebrate in different ways, so use what fits your home and leave the rest.

Learn the seven principles

The principles are called the Nguzo Saba. They are Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith). Read about each one together before the first day, using the sources above.

Gather the symbols

The seven symbols are Mazao (the crops), Mkeka (the mat), Kinara (the candle holder), Muhindi (the corn), Mishumaa Saba (the seven candles), Kikombe cha Umoja (the unity cup) and Zawadi (the gifts). Use what you have. A simple cup, a mat and a candle holder work well.

Know the colors and the candles

The colors of Kwanzaa are red, black and green. One candle is lit each night. The black candle is first.

Give each night one principle

Light the candle, name the principle and talk about it. Ask one question, such as how your family can show unity this week. Let children answer in their own words.

Plan the feast

The Karamu, or feast, takes place on the sixth night. Decide who is invited, what you will serve and who is bringing what. Serve what your family enjoys.

Think about gifts

Zawadi can be handmade. A drawing, a card or a small craft is a good gift for a child to make.

Keep a journal

A short note each night about what you did and what you talked about is something to look back on next year.

Start with pages already made

If you would like a page for each principle, a journal page for each day, and feast and gift plans in one place, the Kwanzaa Family Celebration Planner puts it all in one printable book.