Kwanzaa

In 1966 a African-American holiday, "Kwanzaa", was created by a California professor, Dr. Maulana Karenga. Kwanzaa is not religious, political; or is it a substitute for Christmas.

Kwanzaa is celebrated for seven days, December 26 to January 1. And the name "Kwanzaa" comes from a Swahili phrase which means "first of the harvest". It celebrates family, community responsibility, self-improvement, commerce and culture.

Seven candles are placed in a candle holder (Kinara) which is set on a mat made of straw, with an ear of corn for each child in that family. The candle holder has three green candles on the left, three red candles on the right and a black candle in the center. One candle is lit each day of celebration beginning from left to right.