In what year was the first Kwanzaa celebrated?

The first Kwanzaa was celebrated in 1966. Maulana Karenga created the holiday in Los Angeles during the aftermath of the 1965 Watts uprising, seeking a cultural observance centered on African American identity, history, and community.

The inaugural observance began on December 26, 1966, and lasted through January 1. Karenga drew inspiration from African first-fruits traditions, especially their emphasis on harvest, gratitude, renewal, and communal responsibility. He combined those ideas with the seven principles known as the Nguzo Saba.

Kwanzaa was initially promoted as an alternative to Christmas within the Black Power era, but its public presentation later became more inclusive. Karenga eventually emphasized that people could observe Kwanzaa alongside Christmas or another religious holiday. Kwanzaa itself is generally described as a cultural and nonreligious celebration.

The holiday’s seven-day structure explains many of its recurring symbols: one principle is highlighted each day, and seven candles—mishumaa saba—are displayed in a kinara. The first celebration therefore predates the holiday’s wider national visibility by several years.