As an African American and Pan-African holiday celebrated by millions throughout the world African community, Kwanzaa brings a cultural message that speaks to the best of what it means to be African and human in the fullest sense. Given Kwanzaa’s profound significance for African Americans and the world African community, an authoritative source and site must be made available to give an accurate and expansive account of its origins, concepts, values, symbols, and practice. Dr. Maulana Karenga marked Kwanzaa as a cultural holiday, not a religious holiday because he wanted all Africans across all faiths to be able to celebrate the holiday.

Date details: Kwanzaa is celebrated each year from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1.

General practices: During the holiday, families and communities organize activities around the Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles): Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith). Participants also celebrate with feasts (karamu), music, dance, poetry, narratives and end the holiday with a day dedicated to reflection and recommitment to The Seven Principles and other central cultural values.

*To learn more about this cultural holiday, visit the official Kwanzaa website.