Kwanzaa – Meaning Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday honoring African heritage, values, unity, and community responsibility. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga during the Black Freedom Movement to encourage reflection, self-determination, and collective upliftment among people of African descent. Kwanzaa is celebrated from December 26 to January 1 and is not a religious holiday. It is a cultural observance centered on African-centered values, history, and community building. The name Kwanz