Take Celebration To A New Level By Properly Setting The Table During Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa has been celebrated annually between December 26th and January 1st since 1966, when it was created by Maulana Ron Karenga. Despite its proximity on the calendar to Hannukah and Christmas, Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday, rather, originates in the African "first fruit" celebrations (per National Museum of African American History & Culture). This special holiday is a way for many people to reclaim and preserve their heritage.
The traditional Kwanzaa table set up on the first day of the holiday isn't merely for decoration. It is rich in symbolism and a big part of the recognition of the holiday. There are no rules about what food is served on Kwanzaa. Many people cook family favorites while others stick to soul food like collard greens, fried sweet plantains, yams, or food that African ancestors would have eaten. The importance of the holiday isn't found in the food. It lies in honoring the symbolism of the Kwanzaa table.
The rich symbolism of Kwanzaa
To properly set the table for Kwanzaa, you must respect its seven principles. This is traditionally done by setting up a group of items on the first day of the holiday that represent each component of the holiday — crops, a mat, a candleholder, corn, the unity cup, gifts, and seven candles (per History).
The seven candles displayed on the table are placed in a candle holder called a kinara which is placed on the mat. A black candle in the center represents the African people and their roots. Red and green candles go on either side of the black candle, with each one symbolizing a different Kwanzaa principle. A candle is lit every night in a particular order, but the lighting always starts with the black candle to reinforce the belief that the people come first (per Love To Know).
Setting a proper table for the holiday is important but the main idea to remember is that Kwanzaa is all about community, whether you're sharing the table with family or friends or you invite a stranger. The most meaningful part is celebrating the holiday together.