Your guide to understanding the seven symbols of Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is a week-long winter holiday celebrated by the African-American community. It is based on a set of seven symbols that represent traditional African heritage. This guide will help you understand what each means.

The Kikombe Cha Umoja is the unity cup. During Kwanzaa, participants drink from the cup in order to honour their ancestors who lived in Africa. Before taking a drink, they say, "Harambee," which means "Let's pull together!"

Mazao is the Kwanzaa symbol that means "The Crops." It represents African harvest celebrations and how collective labour can yield high rewards.

Zawadi means "The Gifts." This symbol represents the hard work and love of parents for their children. Rather than store-bought toys and clothes, such as those that many receive on Christmas, gifts for Kwanzaa are usually handmade or craft like.

The meaning of Mkeka is "The Mat." It is made of straw or cloth from Africa and all of the Kwanzaa symbols are arranged on it. Mkeka serves as a representation of the foundation on which communities and families are built.

Much like the Jewish holiday of Chanukah, Kwanzaa involves a candle holder called the Kinara. The Kinara holds seven candles. It is more than just a representation of life; it represents a type of rebirth,  signifying corn stalks that fall off in order to allow new ones to grow.

Mishumaa Saba is the symbol that means seven candles. Each stands for one of the Seven Principles known as Nguzo Saba. The Seven Principles are the basic set of values by which African people are urged to live. These symbols guide people to change and build their lives in a way that's beneficial to themselves and others.

Muhundi is the symbol meaning "The Corn." Corn grows from roots and is thus a symbol for the roots from which people grow — their family. It is also symbolic of the African peoples' ancestral roots — the people grew up and lived on continental Africa.