Fun Kwanzaa Games and Activities
The holiday ofKwanzaatakes place from December 26 to January 1st each year. This holiday, which was first celebrated in 1966, honors African-American heritage and culture. Throughout the weeklong celebration, there are seven principles that are recognized. These principles represent unity, self determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. In addition to the recognition and understanding of these principles, it is a time for friends and family to get together and not only celebrate the holiday, but also gather and appreciate each other. While celebrating, there are several games and activities that everyone can participate in and enjoy.
In order to properly celebrate Kwanzaa, many people look to use the order of activities suggested by Dr.Karenga, the founder of Kwanzaa. To do this, a Kwanzaa party is held on December 31st. During this party, a feast is held, followed by sharing of cultural history through stories, fables, songs, or dances.
One of the most traditional Kwanzaa activities is the decorating for the holiday itself. Usually, a central place in the home is chosen and then decorated with a myriad of different items symbolic to Kwanzaa. The table is first decorated with a Kente cloth, followed by a candle holder, corn, and a unity cup. Each of these objects has significant meaning, and it can be fun to discuss and explain to all members of the family the symbolism behind each object.
Gifts are exchanged during Kwanzaa just as Christmas; however, homemade gifts are the focus of the holiday. Some suggestions aremkekaorKwanzaa jewelry. Mkeka’s are personal place mats that are traditionally made of straw, but can be substituted for fabric. Jewelry can be made from clay, fabric, beads, or any other material that utilizes that Kwanzaa colors.
Other Kwanzaa crafts that children will enjoy making adoll pinoregg carton kinara, aKwanzaa corn pin,Kwanzaa gift cans,African drums, orwoven mats. Each of these activities are fairly easy to complete and can be accomplished quickly and effectively with adult supervision.
Kwanzaa is a very unique and special holiday although less than 2% of Americans celebrate the holiday. Nevertheless, by making Kwanzaa just as fun as it is educational and historic, it is a holiday that the whole family can have fun while celebrating.
