Hanukkah and Kwanzaa
December is mostly known for Christmas -- the bright lights, dreams of snow, singing of carols, and shopping for presents. While all of these traditions are lovely, they often overshadow other important holidays in December. Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, to name a few, occur in the midst of Christmas celebrations; Hanukkah starts on Sunday, December 18 and ends on Monday, December 26. Kwanzaa starts on Monday, December 26 and ends on Sunday, January 1. Due to only 4% of the American population celebrating Kwanzaa and 5% celebrating Hanukkah, not many people may understand what is being celebrated.
Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the rising up of the Jews against their Greek-Syrian oppressors during the Maccabean Revolt (167 B.C. thru 160 B.C.). Celebrations revolve around the lighting of a menorah each night, which is displayed in a window. Each night a new candle is added to the menorah after sundown. A ninth candle, known as the “shamash” or helper, is used to light the candles. During the lighting, it is typical for Jews to recite blessings. Other traditions include playing with dreidels and giving gifts. Some foods typically made during Hanukkah are latkes and sufganiyot.
Kwanzaa is a relatively new holiday, seeing as it was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. Dr. Karenga researched several African harvest celebrations and took aspects from each of them to create the holiday. Kwazaa celebrates African and African-American culture, family, and community. Celebrations vary from family to family, but they typically include songs, dancing, story-telling, music, and a large meal. Like Hanukkah, a candle holder (called a Kinara) is lit each night. On each night, one of the seven principles of African culture are discussed. The seven principles are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
As the winter season approaches, keep your eye out for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa festivities. In the hustle and bustle of Christmas, it can be easy to overlook them. Think of those you know, as well. Do you know anyone that is Jewish? Are there people in your life that celebrate Kwanzaa? Make the most of the holidays and enrich yourself in others’ traditions.
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