Millions of African Americans and other members of the African diaspora gather with family and friends each year from December 26 to January 1 to celebrate Kwanzaa. The secular holiday, which has its roots in African harvest festivals, is an affirmation of African family and social values. Kwanzaa is not considered to be a substitute for Christmas, although they are often contrasted; many people celebrate both holidays.
Kwanzaa was conceived in 1966 by a young African American teacher and activist named Maulana Karenga, who went on to become a prominent figure in the Black Power and Afrocentrism movements. The first Kwanzaa celebrations introduced the holiday’s seven core principles, known by Swahili names. On each of the seven days of Kwanzaa, participants light a candle and discuss one of the principles. Over the years, various other symbols and rituals have become associated with Kwanzaa, helping it to endure.