RentzWrentz Magazine December 2013 | страница 52

Before the feast, decorate your house in the colors of Kwanzaa (red, green and black) either using conventional party supplies, such as streamers, or with symbols from black culture, such as the African-American flag. You could also use items from nature, or, if your family also celebrates Christmas, consider decorating your tree with red, green and black ornaments and lights.

For other activities during the party, teach the children traditional African games, such as Kalah, or play Kwanzaa music and encourage everyone to dance.

Since Karamu is a feast, after all, prepare a spread of traditional African-American foods. Involve the children in the meal prep, and they’ll feel a sense of pride for contributing to the dinner.

If you’re looking for favors to give the children after the feast or as gifts on Kwanzaa’s final day, consider books about the holiday.

Kwanzaa is a meaningful way to wrap up the year and reflect on important values. It’s also a chance to start the New Year with a sense of purpose, responsibility, self-respect and care for the community.

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