Kwanzaa is a seven-day celebration that is held between December 26 and January 1 in honor of African cultures and values. It is based around the seven principles of unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, creativity, purpose, cooperative economics, and faith. Kwanzaa is a time for Africans around the world to celebrate their roots and culture, including their native foods. It is also a time where some choose to exchange gifts, but what do you get someone for Kwanzaa? Here are some ideas that may help you out as you do your Kwanzaa shopping, either for ready made gifts or the supplies to make your own.
*African Cookbooks are a wonderful addition to the shelf of any culinary kitchen. You can purchase one or you can make your own with recipes that the person would especially enjoy of traditional African dishes.
*There are beautiful African clothing that you can buy or make as a gift for someone. They will treasure this gesture and these clothes are so colorful and comfortable that they’ll probably wear them out!
*African history books, movies, and CDs are nice gifts, especially for those with children so that they can share their heritage.
*African instruments are fun gifts for kids and adults alike. If you are hosting a Kwanzaa party, get one for each guest and then have fun creating your own “band” and making a video to share after the party is over.
*African games are another great gift idea that you can either buy or make. There is an African block game that is similar to the game Jenga and is easy to make with fifty simple wooden blocks that you can paint or decorate with each of the symbols of Kwanzaa.
*I found this idea at a celebrating Kwanzaa website and thought it was wonderful so I will share it with you. It is for a handmade Unity Cup and here is how you can make your own.
The kikombe cha umoja, or Unity Cup, is an ideal gift for anyone this Kwanzaa, and it’s fairly simple to make. You can either craft your cup out of modeling clay that’s easily baked in the oven, or decoupage an existing cup. Use the traditional black, red and green colors for your Unity Cup. To decoupage, simply cover the existing cup with an adhesive made for the process, such as Mod Podge. Then, place the paper strips around the cup, and cover with another layer of decoupage adhesive. Allow the adhesive to dry thoroughly.
These are a few ideas for Kwanzaa gifts that will be meaningful and thoughtful to give. The person who is celebrating Kwanzaa will appreciate being remembered by you and you can have alot of fun coming up with beautiful and wonderful Kwanzaa gifts.