If you celebrate Kwanzaa or just want to learn about the traditions, use these resource links to have fun!
Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration honouring African heritage in African-American culture. Created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, the holiday was designed to unite African Americans as a community. Dr. Karenga drew inspiration from African harvest, or “first fruits,” celebrations and established seven symbols representing values and concepts rooted in African culture. Observed from December 26th through January 1st, Kwanzaa culminates in gift-giving and a festive feast.
THE SEVEN VALUES OF KWANZAA
Kwanzaa is a celebration of family, community and culture.
- Unity (Umoja),
- Collective Work & Responsibility (Ujima),
- Self-determination (Kujichagulia),
- Purpose (Nia),
- Cooperative Economics (Ujamaa),
- Faith (Imani), and
- Creativity (Kuumba).
The seven symbols of those values are Fruits, Nuts, & Vegetables for the crops (Mazao), the Place Mat (Mkeka), an Ear of Corn (Vibunzi). The Seven Candles (Mishumaa Saba), The Unity Cup (Kikombe Cha Umoja), Gifts (Zawadi), and The Candleholder (Kinara).
KWANZAA ACTIVITY IDEAS
ONLINE STORIES
Enjoy these online stories about Kwanzaa with the family.
| Little Rabbit’s Kwanzaa | Kwanzaa: What It Is and How we Celebrate It! | Together for Kwanzaa |
| My First Kwanzaa by Karen Katz | Kevin’s Kwanzaa | Kwanzaa Stories |
This project is made possible thanks to the financial participation of the regroupement lavallois pour la réussite éducative RLPRE as part of an agreement with the Ministry of Education:
