There is a traditional way to celebrate Kwanzaa, and there are a few basic items that you will needs before you begin. It’s easy, and you can do it right in your home.
Well, you’ll need a table and if you wish you can put a cloth over it first: such as, the bendera ya taifa flag (black, red and green).
A poster of the Nguzo Saba, the seven principles is displayed.
A table is set with a straw mat called Mkeka. It is symbolic of past traditions and African American History. All the items used during the Kwanzaa celebration are placed on the Mkeka.
You should have the following candles, one black, three red and three green. They are called Mishumaa Saba. Each evening one candle is lit. First, light the black candle and continuing from left to right on each day of the celebration. While the candles glows, the principle of the day is discussed. Everyone has a chance to explain what the Nguzo Saba Principles means to him/her. Placed the candles in the candleholder, which is called a Kinara. Each candle stands for one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. The black candle represents the people, the red candles represents of struggle, and the green candles represents hope, future and the outcome of hard work.
A bowl of fruit and vegetables are placed on the table and they are calling Mazao. The fruit and vegetables represent the harvest, which is the reward for working together throughout the year.
We place corn on the Mkeka. The corn is Mihindi. The ears of corn represent children who are the future of the African American people. Usually, an ear of corn is placed on the Mkeka for each child in the home. If there are no children in the home, still place corn on the table to represent the African belief that it takes a village to raise a child.
A cup called a Kikombe Cha umoja (unity cup) is placed on the Mkeka. It is passed around after the libation statement. The libation statement is a way of remembering and honoring African American Ancestor, and is a heartfelt request for peace, Prosperity and harmony for the New Year.
African art, sculptures and books by and about African and African-Americans are placed on the Mkeka.
Once the Kwanzaa Table is complete, its time for the celebration to begin.
Many African-Americans wear African style clothing during the Kwanzaa celebration.
Usually, on the sixth day of Kwanzaa, December 31, the Karamu is held. The Karamu feast is a gathering of family and friends.
On the first day of January the Zawadi gifts are exchange; In keeping with the spirit of Kwanzaa, giving hand made gifts shows creativity or gifts designed to improve the mind and heart of the person who receives them.
