Do you know about Kwanzaa?

Continuing the idea of explaining the major holidays in December, today’s blog is about Kwanzaa, an African- American holiday started in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga.

Kwanzaa is based on 7 principles; unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Celebrating Kwanzaa involves a Kinara (a 7 candle holder, not to be confused with a menorah), Mmkea (a straw placemat), Mazao (crops such as fruits and vegetables and the number of ears of corn generally reflect the number of children in the house), Kikombe cha umoja (communal unity cup), Mishumaa saba( 7 candles-1 black, 3 red, 3 green) and a Zawadi(enriching gifts). The seven candles represent the seven principles.  The colors of Kwanzaa are black, red and green and these should be the dominate colors when decorating the house for Kwanzaa.  Gifts are given during Kwanzaa but they should be of a educational nature.  The big feast of Kwanzaa or the Karamu is held on December 31st, and this feast is way of connecting people back to their African roots.  Kwanzaa is not a holiday meant to replace Christmas.

All information from Tike.com

Are there any other December holidays I should cover?