- 26 December to 1 January
- Seven principles, seven candles
- Created in 1966
Where it began
Kwanzaa was created by Maulana Karenga in 1966 in the United States. Its name comes from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning first fruits, and it draws on African harvest festivals.
The seven principles are Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith).
How it grew over time
1966
The first Kwanzaa was held in the United States.
1970s and 1980s
The celebration spread through African American families, schools and community groups.
1997
The United States Postal Service issued its first Kwanzaa stamp.
Today
Kwanzaa is kept by families in the US, Canada, the Caribbean and beyond, often alongside other winter holidays.
How it is celebrated in different places
United States
Museums, churches and community centres hold candle lightings, drumming and dance.
Canada
Black communities in cities like Toronto mark the week with gatherings and music.
Caribbean and UK
Some families of African heritage keep the week with stories and a shared meal.
Kwanzaa moments
Kwanzaa today
Each evening one candle is lit on the kinara, a holder for three red, one black and three green candles. Families talk about that day's principle, and children may get handmade or meaningful gifts.
On 31 December families and friends gather for Karamu, a feast of food, music and dance.
