Kwanzaa: Soul Food Celebration
Kwanzaa, celebrated by some African Americans, is a holiday which has gained in popularity in recent years. It came out of the ‘60s cultural revolution that set off an interest in African history, music, art and a growing sense of black consciousness.

Kwanzaa, which means "first fruits of the harvest," is celebrated for seven days from December 26 through January 1. It is a cultural, rather than religious, holiday. Each day is celebrated, generally by a gathering of family and friends. Participants discuss and commit to seven guiding principles, one each day. A candle is lighted each day. The first day starts with a black candle–it represents African American people in unity. The next six days alternate between lighting a red candle, representing struggle, and a green candle, representing a "green future." A feast is held on December 31 for sharing, remembering, reassessing and rejoicing. ~Bev Whitfield and Kathleen Wilson

Traditional Kwanzaa feast
• Fried Okra
• Chicken & Sausage Gumbo with Rice
• Collard Greens
• Coconut Biscuits
• Classic Cornbread
• Down Home Sweet Potato Pie

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