Today's Reason to Celebrate

December 26, 2011 was

Kwanzaa

The week-long celebration of Kwanzaa begins today! Send free Kwanzaa eCards to friends and family in honor of the occasion.  This holiday was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966 to honor African American heritage. It reflects upon and celebrates seven principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. 

On each day of the celebration, a candle is lit on the Kinara. Today, on the first day of Kwanzaa, a black candle is lit to symbolize the people. To the left of the black candle are three red candles, representing the people's struggles. To the right of the black candle are three green candles, symbolizing the people's hope for the future. The candles are lit from left to right, one candle for each day of the celebration.

Celebrate African American culture, and enjoy the festive meals and gift-giving! We wish you a Joyous Kwanzaa!

  • December 26, 2011 is also Boxing Day | National Candy Cane Day
  • December is National Fruit Cake Month | National Egg Nog Month