CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) – December is brimming with festive holidays designed to celebrate family, friends, and good fortune. While Christmas and Chanukah may dominate the holiday landscape this time of year, African American and Pan-African cultures observe a week-long celebration known as Kwanzaa from December 26 to January 1.

The values that are the tenets of this festival include Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). These principles were drawn from the values found throughout Africa. Each day of the celebration is dedicated to one of the seven principles.

Seven symbols embody the holiday, including fruits, vegetables and nuts; a straw mat; a candleholder; ears of corn; gifts; a communal unity cup; and seven candles in the colors of red, green and black. Families come together to light one of the candles in the kinara (candleholder) each day, and discuss the day’s principle.

On December 31, participants join in a community feast, and many people wear traditional African clothing. The feast includes foods from African, African American and Caribbean traditions. Dishes enjoyed during Kwanzaa include candied yams, fried chicken, jerk chicken, jollof rice, gumbo, and collard greens. CBC Kids News says celebrants also play drums and dance during Kwanzaa festivities.

Kwanzaa unites Black communities and helps to celebrate heritage, culture and community spirit. The holiday rounds out the year with ritual and celebration.