Kinara

Kwanzaa · candles · African American culture · traditions

Seven branches, seven candles. A kinara holds exactly seven candles that represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Three red candles go on the left, three green candles on the right, and one black candle in the middle.

Center of celebration. Families light one new candle each night of Kwanzaa, starting with the black candle in the middle. This ritual helps people reflect on the values that matter to their community.

African inspired design. The kinara's seven-branched style is inspired by African candleholders and represents African heritage and traditions that people honor during Kwanzaa.

Made from many materials. Kinaras can be crafted from wood, clay, metal, or other materials. Some families use simple designs while others have beautiful carved or decorated kinaras passed down through generations.