The African American Santa celebrates Kwanzaa, a celebration unique to African Americans which focuses on African values of family, community responsibility, commerce and self-improvement. Kwanzaa does not take the place of Christmas. It is simply a time of reaffirming the ancestors and culture of the African American people. Kwanzaa means “first fruits of the harvest.” Santa holds a basket filled with these fruits, which symbolize harvest festivals where families gather to celebrate with joys and thanksgiving. The African American Santa carries a “Kinara”, which holds seven candles in the traditional colors of black, red and green. Each candle symbolizes one of the seven guiding principals that are observed from December 26th through January 1st. These principals affirm the values of Kwanzaa and strive to unite and strengthen family bonds. Kwanzaa is a beautiful holiday that has much to teach everyone.