The African tradition of celebrating its “first” fruits occurs from December 26 to January 1st and lasts 7 days; Kwanzaa meaning “First.” This tradition is celebrated by decorating with the colors of Kwanzaa; red, black, and green. Other materials used to decorate are African flags, souvenirs, and crafts, as well as, fabrics to create chair sashes, napkins, pillows, table runners, and table covers. A prominent symbol that represents Kwanzaa is the Unity cup. Family will drink from this cup to honor the fight and commitment that was begun by the ancestors; so incorporating this symbol into the décor can be beneficial to the festivity.

Hang multi-colored lighting to give the venue, whether it is a banquet hall, a meeting room, or the comfort of your own home, some life. Incorporate traditional African music by playing your own music hooked up to a sound system or hiring a DJ or an MC, so that your guests can enjoy the cultural dances on the dance floor. Centerpieces made from fruits, dried flowers, and nuts are typically utilized. Be sure to present the Kinara, or seven candle candelabra, that will hold the candles that represent all seven principles of Kwanzaa.

Have a catering company create a mouth-watering feast; traditional Kwanzaa foods include anything from collard greens and oxtails to black eyed peas and curried goat. As party favors, the gifts should be educational, simple, cultural and possibly home-made. Maybe create a small gift basket filled with delicious Kwanzaa cookies with green black and red icing. Party cakes are usually made of fruit; most commonly are the pineapple upside down cake and the fruit cake.