Why is Kwanzaa first fruits? What does Kwanzaa translate to in English?

Kwanzaa is a celebration of African heritage and Black culture that lasts for seven days, from December 26 to January 1. The name Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza”, which means “first fruits of the harvest”.

Kwanzaa honors the values and strength of the African-American community, such as unity, self-determination, collective work, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. These are the seven principles of Kwanzaa, also known as Nguzo Saba in Swahili.

Each day of Kwanzaa, one of these principles is discussed and a candle is lit on a special candleholder called a kinara. The candles are black, red, and green, representing the colors of the pan-African flag.

Kwanzaa also has seven symbols that represent African culture and history, such as fruits, nuts, corn, a unity cup, and handmade gifts. On the last day of Kwanzaa, a feast called Karamu is held to celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of a new one.