Kwanzaa 2024 starts today, highlighting African-American culture and unity

(WLOS) — Kwanzaa, the annual celebration of African-American culture, starts today.

The week-long celebration begins the day after Christmas and ends on Jan. 1 in the new year.

The name Kwanzaa comes from a Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which means “first fruits.” It is based on harvest festival traditions from parts of Africa.

Kwanzaa is traditionally celebrated with the lighting of the kinara – a candleholder with red, black and green candles – as well as performances, a feast and a gift exchange.

Kwanzaa is also a time to honor African culture, families and communities by focusing on seven principles. These principles include Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith).