The Kwanzaa feast held on December 31 is called Karamu.
More fully known as Karamu Ya Imani, meaning “Feast of Faith,” it is usually held on the sixth day of Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa runs from December 26 through January 1, making December 31 its penultimate day.
Karamu is a communal celebration featuring food, music, dancing, artistic performances, readings, and reflections on African American culture and heritage. Its program may include welcoming guests, remembrance, recommitment, rejoicing, a libation statement, and a farewell statement.
Karamu should not be confused with the kinara, the candleholder used during Kwanzaa, or mishumaa saba, the seven candles placed in it. Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, who organized its themes around seven principles known as the Nguzo Saba.