Kwanzaa

What is Kwanzaa?

On December 26, many families begin a celebration of African heritage. It is called Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa last seven days. The word Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili saying matunda ya kwanza. It means “first fruits.” Swahili is a language. It is spoken in many areas of Africa.

During Kwanzaa, people are encouraged to wear African clothing, jewelry, and hairstyles. Women might wear clothes made from colorful African cloth. Men often dress in black, red, and green.

In Africa, people gather to celebrate the harvest of crops. This is when the food that people have grown is ready to be picked. These are called “first fruits.” It is time to celebrate. Everyone is thankful for the food.

Kwanzaa is similar to harvest celebrations. It is a time to be thankful. People give thanks for their family, community, and African heritage.

Although Kwanzaa is a celebration of African heritage, anyone can celebrate Kwanzaa. People who celebrate Kwanzaa may also celebrate Christmas.