Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration held from December 26 to January 1, honoring African heritage and culture. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor of African studies at California State University, Long Beach. The name Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which means “first fruits.”
Kwanzaa is a time for families and communities to come together and celebrate their African heritage. It is a time to reflect on the past, present, and future, and to recommit to the values of family, community, and self-reliance. The celebration includes a variety of activities, such as storytelling, singing, dancing, and feasting.