Kwanzaa

Next celebratedSaturday, December 26, 2026

Spread joy and unity this holiday season with Kwanzaa traditions like lighting the kinara, sharing meaningful gifts, and feasting together.

See how to celebrate

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEDecember 26

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYBlack History

INTRO

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the rich culture and traditions of Kwanzaa on December 26! This holiday, which originated in the United States in 1966, celebrates African heritage and values. It is a week-long celebration that focuses on seven principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. During this special time, families come together to honor their ancestry, share stories and meals, and exchange meaningful gifts. So mark your calendar for this joyous occasion and get ready to embrace the spirit of unity and community with loved ones!

TIMELINE

Kwanzaa Timeline

Kwanzaa Inception

Dr. Maulana Karenga created Kwanzaa as a cultural response to the commercialization of Christmas.

First Kwanzaa Stamp

The United States Postal Service issued the first Kwanzaa stamp as a recognition of the holiday’s cultural significance.

Widespread Recognition

By this time, Kwanzaa was widely recognized and celebrated nationally.

Kwanzaa in Media

Kwanzaa starts being represented in media, showcasing the ceremonial practices to a larger audience.

New Kwanzaa Stamp

The USPS issued a new, more colorful Kwanzaa stamp, further establishing the cultural importance of the holiday.

Global Celebration

Today, Kwanzaa is celebrated globally by millions of people of African descent.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Kwanzaa

Create a Kwanzaa-inspired craft

Get creative and make a Kwanzaa-inspired craft to decorate your home. From paper lanterns to unity cups, there are plenty of DIY ideas out there to celebrate this holiday.

HOST

Host a Kwanzaa-themed dinner party

Invite friends and family over for a Kwanzaa-themed dinner party. Serve traditional African dishes and have discussions about the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

ATTEND

Attend a Kwanzaa festival or event

Check your local community calendar for any Kwanzaa festivals or events happening in your area. This is a great way to experience the holiday with others and learn more about its traditions and customs.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a community service project

Kwanzaa emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community, so why not volunteer at a local service project in honor of the holiday? This is a meaningful and impactful way to celebrate.

READ

Read books or watch movies about Kwanzaa

Gather your family and spend an evening reading books or watching movies that focus on Kwanzaa. This is a great way to educate yourself and your loved ones about the history and significance of the holiday.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Kwanzaa is Important

It encourages self-improvement and growth

The seven principles of Kwanzaa (Nguzo Saba) are focused on values such as unity, purpose, creativity, and responsibility - all of which promote personal growth and improvement. Kwanzaa serves as a reminder to constantly strive towards being better individuals for ourselves and our communities.

It celebrates African heritage and culture

Kwanzaa is a holiday that focuses on African traditions, values, and history. It is a way to honor and preserve these important aspects of African culture and pass them down to future generations.

It promotes community building

During Kwanzaa, people come together to celebrate, reflect, and share their experiences. This fosters a sense of unity and solidarity within the community, which is an essential aspect of the holiday's principles.

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