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.
Kwanzaa Turns 50: A Look at the History of the Holiday
Grades 6-12
In 1966, activist and Africana Studies Professor Dr. Maulana Karenga founded a new secular holiday on the seven days following Christmas: Kwanzaa. Learn about the origin and traditions of Kwanzaa, and how the holiday celebrates the cultural history of Americans of African descent.
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.
Kwanzaa Books for Kids
Grades PreK-5
Reading books to children is a gift that keeps giving! When combined with a holiday like Kwanzaa, reading offers an opportunity to celebrate and educate little ones about African heritage and Black culture.
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.