Kwanzaa is a time to honor the past and connect with family and friends. Kwanzaa is comparatively a young holiday tradition that has been gaining popularity gradually. For African-American heritage and culture, it is a very meaning celebration that connects African culture and harvest to American customs. If you want to celebrate it this year, add decorations. Kwanzaa decorations can be store-bought or homemade. If you are a DIY enthusiast, you can weave a Mkeka, make a Kinara, or paint ceramic bowls. You can also use your creativity to make unique items that honor the holiday and African values. Here are a few ways you can transform your home.

How To Transform Your Home With Kwanzaa Decorations

Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration and starts the day after Christmas – December 26th. Like any other holiday, it is the time to decorate the home and get together with friends and family members. During this time, families get together, exchange gifts, take parts in various sacred traditions, and share the feast of Karamu.

Display the Bendera Ya Taifa (National Flag)

Showcase the official Kwanzaa flag indoors or outdoors. The flag represents the struggle for freedom and is very significant. Hang it facing east as that’s the tradition. If you don’t have a flag, make one. Divide a white piece of construction paper into 3 equal parts. Paint the top part red, the middle part black, and the bottom part green.

Beautify Your Home with Red, Black, and Green Decorations

To celebrate African heritage, display objects with Kwanzaa colors in prominent locations. Put the items on your fireplace mantel, on the coffee table, or in a curio cabinet. Tie ribbons around candles and vases and throw a blanket over your sofa. You can also create a colorful bouquet using balloons and place it on your porch to welcome guests.

Create a Centerpiece for Your Dining Table

The most important part of Kwanzaa is the ritual feast which is celebrated on the last day of December. The feast is known as Karamu which translated means the feast of feasts. Set out the items used for the Karamu in advance. Lay down the Mkeka (mat made of straw or fabric) then place a candleholder with seven candles: three red, three green, and one black. Place the black one in the middle, the red ones on the left, and the green ones on the right. To complete the centerpiece, add the unity cup and a bowl of fruit.

Looking for Christmas Centerpieces?

Many centerpieces can be adapted for the Kwanzaa holiday. Take a look at our 20 pretty Christmas centerpieces to give you ideas.

Adorn your home with Kwanzaa decorations to make it outstanding. Choose the most beautiful objects to celebrate the occasion. Start picking the decorations early as the holiday season can be quite busy. Also, be sure to choose ornaments which represent African culture and show your commitment to the holiday. You’ll enjoy the celebration tremendously.

Are you celebrating Kwanzaa this year?

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