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Setting a Traditional Kwanzaa Table

If you're going to be celebrating Kwanzaa this year, you will need to set a traditional Kwanzaa table. Kwanzaa is a seven day celebration that honors seven values: Unity, Self Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity and Faith. Read on to find out how to set a festive and traditional table for your Kwanzaa celebration.

When designing your holiday table, keep in mind the traditional Kwanzaa colors: black, red and green. The first think you'll need is a tablecloth. You can use an African patterned tablecloth with the traditional colors or simply choose one of the three colors for your tablecloth.

First, place a traditional Mkeka, or mat, on the table. The ritual kinara, or candleholder, will sit on top. The kinara is a seven pronged candleholder which holds one black candle, three red candles, and three green candles. The black candle is always in the center, with the red candles on the left and green ones on the right. On either side of the kinara, place ears of decorative corn. Also on the table should be a basket filled with fruits and vegetables to symbolize a plentiful harvest. You can add anything else to your table that you feel represent the holiday. Gifts are good ideas, as well as African sculptures or figurines.

Along with the decorations, you'll definitely need food to go on the table! After all, feasting is a traditional part of the Kwanzaa holiday. Your Kwanzaa feast can feature family favorites as well as traditional African dishes. It's customary to provide a three course meal including appetizers, a main course with sides, and of course, dessert.

For your appetizers, try coconut shrimp, spicy chicken wings and deviled eggs sprinkled with paprika. Dinner can consist of any of the following favorites: fried chicken, shrimp or chicken gumbo, red snapper, baked ham, or anything else your family and guests will love. Great sides include fried okra, African carrot salad, candied yams and macaroni and cheese. For dessert, try sweet potato pie, banana pudding, red velvet cake or any of your favorite family treats.

A beautifully set, abundant Kwanzaa table will set the stage for a special and memorable holiday celebration!