The holiday season is a time for family, community, and celebration, but for Black families, the traditions that have been passed down through generations are particularly meaningful. These customs connect us to our rich cultural heritage and remind us of the resilience and joy that have defined the Black experience.
Kwanzaa, an annual celebration of African culture, takes place from December 26 to January 1, is one example. The annual holiday was created in 1966 during the height of the Black Freedom Movement. Founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga, an activist and distinguished professor of Africana Studies at California State University, Long Beach, Kwanzaa is deeply rooted in the harvest festivals of Africa. The holiday holds profound cultural significance for many African Americans and communities within the African diaspora. The name “Kwanzaa” is derived from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning “first fruits,” which reflects the tradition of celebrating the harvest and the contributions of African ancestors.
Kwanzaa’s symbolism is expressed through its colors and practices. The holiday’s colors—red, green, and black—represent the core values of unity and the shared history of Africans worldwide. The black candle, placed in the center of the kinara (candleholder), symbolizes the African diaspora. The three red candles stand for the struggle and perseverance of African people, while the three green candles represent hope, renewal, and the promise of a brighter future born from the resilience of the diaspora.
Each day during Kwanzaa, families light one of the seven candles, known as mishumaa saba, on the kinara. These candles represent the Nguzo Saba, or the Seven Principles, which form the foundation of the holiday. Created by Karenga, the principles are umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (collective work and responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economics), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity), and imani (faith).
As each candle is lit, families gather to reflect on the day’s principle, discussing its meaning and how it can be applied in everyday life. This daily practice fosters a deeper understanding of African heritage, encourages personal growth, and strengthens the bonds of community. Through Kwanzaa, families honor their cultural roots, celebrate the achievements of the past, and commit to building a brighter future together.
Here are nine more holidays and traditions widely celebrated in Black American families that we should continue to honor and pass down through generations.