Kwanzaa Guide for Chicagoland Families

This family guide has you covered with recipes, crafts and more.

Kwanzaa is an African American cultural celebration that focuses on harvest and builds pride and unity within the Black community. The seven principles – Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujamma, Nia, Kuumba and Imani – are celebrated through dancing, singing, the Kinara lighting and a huge feast with loved ones.

Families who celebrate Kwanzaa can celebrate with a fun craft, recipes and activities listed in this family guide.

The food

Sitting down and having a meal with your loved ones is essential to celebrating this holiday. If you want to try something new, we suggest these fun recipes.

Kwanzaa activities

Red, green and black — the colors of the Black Liberation flag — are an important part of the holiday. Many families decorate their homes in these colors and set up a seven-branch candleholder known as a Kinara, with seven red, green and black candles, one of which is lit each day during Kwanzaa.

For families with kids, you may be looking for ways to tap into their creativity with these colors and they can with these fun craft ideas.

Looking for even more Kwanzaa fun? Check out the Chicago Parent roundup of Kwanzaa Family Events happening this year!

Happy Kwanzaa!


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Chicago Parent Editorial Team
Chicago Parent Editorial Team
Since 1984, the Chicago Parent editorial team is trained to be the go-to source for Chicagoland families, offering a rich blend of expert advice, compelling stories, and the top local activities for kids. Renowned for their award-winning content, the team of editors and writers are dedicated to enriching family life by connecting parents with the finest resources and experiences our community has to offer.
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