Celebrating Umoja (Unity)

Focus on building and strengthening family and community bonds.

Singing Kwanzaa Songs

Enjoy traditional songs or chants that celebrate African culture and values.

Practicing Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)

Support Black-owned businesses or community initiatives.

Dancing to African Drums

Celebrate with energetic dancing and drumming, honoring African heritage.

Reciting the Nguzo Saba

Reflect on the Seven Principles: Unity, Self-Determination, and more.

Making Kwanzaa Crafts

Create items like beaded jewelry, woven mats, or African masks.

Honoring Ancestors

Display symbols or photos of ancestors as a way to honor their legacy.

Giving Zawadi (Gifts)

Exchange handmade or meaningful gifts that symbolize growth and achievement.

Displaying the Mkeka

Set up the traditional mat as the foundation of the Kwanzaa display.

Sharing a Kwanzaa Greeting

Use the Swahili phrase “Habari Gani?” meaning “What’s the news?”

Feasting at Karamu

Enjoy the traditional Kwanzaa feast, filled with laughter, food, and community.

Setting Up the Vibunzi

Display the ear of corn, symbolizing children and the future.

Free Square

Sharing Libations

Pour and share from the Unity Cup, symbolizing togetherness and remembrance.

Reflecting on Nia (Purpose)

Think about how your talents and efforts contribute to the collective good.

Cooking Traditional Foods

Prepare dishes like black-eyed peas, collard greens, and sweet potatoes.

Decorating with Red, Black, and Green

Use the Pan-African colors to symbolize unity and heritage.

Lighting the Black Candle

Begin Kwanzaa by lighting the black candle, representing unity.

Learning African History

Read or watch something about African history or culture as a family.

Lighting the Kinara

Light the candles each night, representing the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa.

Telling Ancestral Stories

Share stories about ancestors and their contributions to the family or community.

Lighting the Green Candle

Highlight a principle of growth, such as Purpose or Cooperative Economics.

Lighting the Red Candle

Reflect on the struggles of the past and how they guide the present.

Reflecting on Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)

Discuss the importance of defining and naming yourself.

Unity Circle Gathering

Sit together as a family or community to reflect on the meaning of Kwanzaa.