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What is the 7 days of Kwanzaa?
Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of life observed for seven days from December 26 to January 1 by Black people to honor their heritage. The week-long celebration may include songs, dances, African drums, storytelling, poetry reading, and a large feast on December 31, called a Karamu.
What happens on each day of Kwanzaa?
Each day a different principle is discussed, and each day a candle is lit on the kinara (candleholder). On the first night, the center black candle is lit, and the principle of umoja, or unity is discussed. On the final day of Kwanzaa, families enjoy an African feast, called karamu.
What are the 7 principles of Kwanzaa and what do they mean?
It celebrates seven values in African culture: unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Kwanzaa began in 1966 when it was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a Black power activist and professor of Africana studies.
What order do you light Kwanzaa candles?
The official lighting direction is to light the center black candle first, then proceed from left to right, beginning with the leftmost red candle. Alternatively, some prefer to light the center black candle first, then alternate between red and green candles, beginning with the leftmost red candle, followed by the rightmost green candle, and so on, moving from the outer candles inward.Kwanzaa / Candle lighting direction
Which candle is lit on the first day of Kwanzaa?
One Black Candle The day one (Umoja) focus is on the unity of family, community, nation, and race. The candle represents the African American and Pan-American peoples. It is placed in the center of the mishumaa saba. This candle is always lit first on the opening day of Kwanzaa.
How do I light my kinara order?
Red, green, and black are the symbolic colors of the holiday. During the week of Kwanzaa, a new candle is lit on the kinara each day. The center black candle is lit first, and the lighting then proceeds from left to right, the new candle being lit corresponding to the principle of that day.
What are gifts given on the last day of Kwanzaa called?
On January 1st, exchange presents for Kuumba. Kuumba, meaning creativity, is highly encouraged and brings a sense of self-satisfaction. The gifts are usually exchanged between the parents and children and are given out traditionally on January 1st, the last day of Kwanzaa.
What fruit is eaten during Kwanzaa?
Arrange your “first fruits” around the kinara. Fresh pears are a lovely addition to the Kwanzaa table. You will also want to include one ear of corn (a symbol of fertility) for every child in the family. If you don’t have kids, you’ll still include one ear for the idea of social parenthood.