What Are the Symbols of Kwanzaa?

What are the symbols of Kwanzaa? Kwanzaa symbols have an important role in this African-American cultural holiday celebrated from December 26 to January 1 each year. Families gather Kwanzaa supplies, and the symbols are used to represent meaningful themes of the holiday each year. There are seven significant Kwanzaa symbols, which are set up on the Kwanzaa altar or table and used to celebrate Kwanzaa.

The Seven Kwanzaa Symbols

• Mkeka, a woven straw mat, which has the other decorations placed upon it. The mat can be made of fabric, paper or raffia instead of straw, if desired. It symbolizes the ancestors' sacrifices, achievements, experiences and culture, which set a standard for people to follow.
• Kinara, a seven-branched candle holder that holds red, green and black candles, represents the Nguzo Saba, or African ancestors. The black candle is placed in the center. Three red candles sit to the left, and three green candles sit on the right.
• Mishumaa Saba, the seven candles, each standing for one of the seven principles of Nguzo Saba. The colors are consistent with the colors of the African flag: red, black and green.
• Muhindi, ears of corn, represent the future of the family, embodied by children. One suke, or ear, is used per child in the household. Use two if there are no children. The corn also represents the respect for the Native Americans, and the contribution they made to the African-American culture and the lives of ancestors.
• Mazao, harvest vegetables and fruit, represent the honor and gratitude for the work of the farmers who grew this food. Everyone shares and eats these together. They are placed on the Mkeka. 
• Kikome Cha Umoja, a unity cup, represents unity of family and community. It is filled with water, juice or wine. A bit of the liquid is poured out first, in honor of the ancestors. Then everyone shares and passes the cup around, taking sips and passing to the next person.
• Zawadi, special enriching gifts, represent developing the potential of children so they can become good people. These gifts may consist of books, videos or something educational.