Kwanzaa is an African-American and Pan-African holiday which celebrates family, community, and culture. It is observed from December 26 to January 1, and each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to a different principle, or Nguzo Saba. In 2025, Kwanzaa will be celebrated from December 26, 2025 to January 1, 2026.
Kwanzaa was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966 as a way to bring African-Americans together and celebrate their heritage. The holiday is based on African harvest festivals, and its name comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which means “first fruits.”
