Kwanzaa on the Net - Did You Know? Kwanzaa

Did You Know?
Facts, Figures & Folklore About Kwanzaa

Did you know that Kwanzaa is a week-long African American holiday celebrated from December 26th to January 1st?

Did you know that 2009 will mark the 43rd celebration of Kwanzaa? The holiday was developed in 1966 by activist Dr. Maulana Karenga to celebrate African American culture.

Did you know that as many as 18 million African Americans will celebrate Kwanzaa this year?

Did you know that Kwanzaa celebrants light a candle during each day of the holiday? The first candle is black, symbolizing the African American people. The next three are red, representing the struggles of the black people. Next are three green candles, which symbolize hope for the future. The candles are lit from left to right.

Did you know that each day of Kwanzaa is represented by a different life principle? In order, these principles are: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

Did you know that the name Kwanzaa comes from a Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza," meaning "first fruits of the harvest"? During the holiday of Kwanzaa, many people exchange greetings in Swahili.

Did you know that on the last full day of Kwanzaa celebrants enjoy a large feast? This feast, called karamu, is the high point of the holiday.

Did you know that the official colors of Kwanzaa are black, red and green? These colors, represented in the candles lit each night, also are included in home decorations. Other decorations feature traditional African items, such as baskets, cloths, and harvest symbols.

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Comments

raven

12:26 11/19/2009

hi yealll

Killabuzz from Guatemala

13:06 10/26/2009

Describing a photograph on my Textbook assignment, I came across these site. It clearly explains the meaning of the candles, how they relate to the 7 days, and the meaning of its colors. I'm so much inform far beyond the candles and Kwanzaa celebration and tradition.

Patricia Almada from Mexico

18:40 10/19/2009

This is the second time I talk my students about Kwanzaa, I like them to know about other places and traditions, and I like Kwanzaa. Thank you for your information it was very helpful. Miss Patty, from Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico

Max from Illinois, US

12:14 09/22/2009

I really like your web site. I've been practicing kwanzaa for about 10 years. I came up with my own kwanzaa song to help my family learn the words. (swahili) And we've sing for people, but I was told that our pronunciation of the words, were not correct. Do you know where I can find this information. Thank You, Max

AussieBoy from Alabama, US

17:56 05/10/2009

this sounds boring.....

citlaly from North Carolina, US

09:41 02/10/2009

this is good info

mariam musaka from Canada

20:00 12/24/2008

to:barb from:mariam musaka yeah i do believe in god!and i wan't to ask u if we can still celerbert kwanzaa? please write me back soon

Barb from Washington, US

21:21 12/23/2008

Do you believe in Jesus as your/our Savior? And the Trinity:God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?

Gitanjali Sharma from India

05:15 12/19/2008

Great information, will definitly share with my students... Thank you

unnanamouse

12:46 12/18/2008

Do you have any special music you listen to? leave answer on the website

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Did You Know? Facts, Figures & Folklore About Kwanzaa

Did You Know?
Facts, Figures & Folklore About Kwanzaa