# Kwanzaa 2026: December 26 to January 1

> Kwanzaa begins on December 26, 2026 and runs through January 1. It is a seven-day celebration of African American culture, family and community, and the dates are the same every year.

Source: https://whatdayisitapp.com/days/kwanzaa/ · Updated: 2026-11-05 · What Day Is It?

## Who created Kwanzaa?

Maulana Karenga, a professor of Africana studies, created Kwanzaa in 1966. He wanted a celebration rooted in African heritage for Black Americans. The name comes from the Swahili phrase *matunda ya kwanza*, “first fruits,” a nod to harvest festivals across Africa.

Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday, not a religious one, so people often celebrate it alongside Christmas or other holidays.

## The seven principles

Each day is dedicated to one principle, called the Nguzo Saba.

| Day | Principle | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Umoja | Unity |
| 2 | Kujichagulia | Self-determination |
| 3 | Ujima | Collective work and responsibility |
| 4 | Ujamaa | Cooperative economics |
| 5 | Nia | Purpose |
| 6 | Kuumba | Creativity |
| 7 | Imani | Faith |

## How it is celebrated

A candle holder called the *kinara* holds seven candles: three red, three green and one black in the center. One is lit each evening, and families talk about that day’s principle. The sixth day brings a large shared feast called the *karamu*. Gifts, known as *zawadi*, are often handmade or educational.

## What to say

“Happy Kwanzaa” is fine. Some people greet each other with *Habari gani?*, Swahili for “What’s the news?”, and answer with the principle of the day.

## Dates

- December 26, 2026 (Saturday)
- December 26, 2027 (Sunday)
- December 26, 2028 (Tuesday)

## FAQ

### Is Kwanzaa religious?

No. It is a cultural celebration, and people of many faiths observe it.

### Can you celebrate Kwanzaa and Christmas?

Yes, and many families do.