from
The Story of Kwanzaa
by Donna L. Washington
illustrated by Stephen Taylor

Find out more
and order the book

During the week of Kwanzaa, people gather in the evenings to light the candles of the kinara and share thoughts on the Nguzo Saba of the day. There are seven candles, mishumaa saba, with three red candles to the right, three green candles to the left, and one black candle in the center of the kinara. The red is for the blood of the African people, the green is for the hope of new life, and the black is for the face of the African people.

The table is set with straw mats called mkeka, reminders of traditions and starting places, and mazao and muhundi, fruits and vegetables, representing the rewards of unity. Muhundi are ears of corn, and there is one ear for each child. Children are the center of the Kwanzaa celebration.

There is also a unity cup, or kikombe cha umoja, from which all will sip.

During each night of Kwanzaa, one might stay at home with family or join other people out in the community. On the evening of Kuumba, there is a celebration called Karamu. This is the great feast of Kwanzaa, a celebration of African American heritage. There are folktales, songs, stories of the lives of famous African Americans, and plenty of food to enjoy! This is the night when people exchange gifts, too. It is a feast of the past, present, and dreams for the future.

What is Kwanzaa?
When is Kwanzaa?/The Nguzo Saba
Recipe for Kwanzaa Benne Cakes
Christmas | Hanukkah