Kwanzaa, the pan-African holiday created by professor and activist Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966, celebrates family, culture and heritage and is modeled after the first harvest celebrations in Africa. It begins on December 26th and lasts until January 1st each year.
Kwanzaa is a seven day cultural festival that stresses the ideals of celebrating and improving upon family, community, culture and self in the African American community. During the holiday, families and communities host activities and gatherings focused on the Nguzo Saba, or “Seven Principles“. They are Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-determination), Ujima (Collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith).
Celebratory meals, music, dance, story-telling and culturally significant gift-giving are also part of the holiday. To learn more about Kwanzaa, and get in the holiday spirit, check out the videos, fun activities, and family-friendly books below!
Learn About the Holiday
Elwood City Celebrates the Holidays⎪Kwanzaa
Grades PreK-5
See how Elwood City celebrates the holidays with Brain as he starts getting ready for Kwanzaa. Learn about the history, symbolism and traditions of the holiday with a short interactive story and coloring page.
Malik Seneferu Dresses Kwanzaa Table⎪Craft in America
Grades 6-12
In this video, artist Malik Seneferu dresses a table for Kwanzaa, teaching us the meaning and intention behind the placement of objects.
Celebrating Kwanzaa⎪Your South Florida
Grades 6-12
Whether you celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah, family and tradition are cherished during the holidays – and the celebration of Kwanzaa is no different. We learn how this cultural tradition continues to unite the community from the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum in Delray Beach, as they prepare for the annual celebration.
Activities, Books & Recipes
Kwanzaa Card
Grades PreK-1
Celebrate the holidays with this printable Sesame Street Kwanzaa Card.
DIY Kwanzaa Kinara
Grades PreK-4
Traditionally during Kwanzaa, one candle is lit each day in recognition of seven principles. The candles are displayed in a special holder called a kinara. Learn how to make one for your own home.
5 Books to Celebrate Kwanzaa
Grades PreK-5
What does your family like to do to celebrate Kwanzaa? Introduce your child to the history and traditions of Kwanzaa with these books to enjoy over the holidays.
The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa⎪Daily Activities, Recipes and Songs
All Ages
Kwanzaa is a time of learning, family and celebration. Each day families and communities light a candle dedicated to one of the seven principles, or Nguzo Saba, and celebrate with various activities. Enjoy these daily songs for reflection, thoughts for the day, recipes, and children’s activities from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture.