Kwanzaa

Created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga.

A Swahili word for "first fruits of the harvest."

It is celebrated December 26 through January 1.

On each of the seven nights, the family gathers and a child lights one of the candles on the Kinara (candleholder).

It encompases seven principles:

• Umoja (Unity)


• Kujichagulia (Self-determination)


• Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)


• Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)


• Nia (Purpose)


• Kuumba (Creativity)


• Imani (Faith)

Kwanzaa activities in San Francisco:

6th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration at the West Bay Conference Center presenting seven days of free events to celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa. (Source: sfgate.com)