Kwanzaa
The word Kwanzaa is derived from the swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza” which means first fruits. This celebration is uniquely practiced among different families and lasts for seven nights, with this year’s ceremony beginning on December 26. On each of the nights, a different candle is lit which represents one of the seven principles of kwanzaa. The principles are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. While the holiday is not of African origin, it is inspired by many African cultural practices. The holiday arose at a time of large social unrest around the United States during the civil rights movement of the 1960s. Following the 1966 Watts race riots in Los Angeles, California, this week-long celebration was created as a way to encourage Black people to connect with their cultural roots.
Yule Solstice
Yule was originally celebrated by the Norse and Scandinavian peoples, with varying traditions. Some accounts describe it as a two-month festival starting in mid-November, while others mention a 12-day celebration beginning with the Winter Solstice, or a three-day feast that began on Solstice Eve. Today, many Pagans continue to observe Yule on the Winter Solstice itself, marking the rebirth of the sun through festivities, gift-giving, and spiritual reflection. For Pagans, this time signifies new beginnings, personal transformation, and the shedding of old habits, as well as a surge in creativity. Key symbols of Yule include evergreens, the Yule Log, Yule trees, mistletoe, holly, wreaths, and bells, with the colors white, green, red, gold, and silver representing the season.
Los Posadas
Celebrated between December 16 and 24, Posadas–meaning “inn” or “lodging”–commemorates the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph’s search for a place to stay. Posadas is predominantly practiced in Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras as well as the United States. It traces its origins back to colonial Mexico when the Spaniards were teaching natives about Catholicism leading up to Christmas. The nine days are symbolic of Mary’s nine months of pregnancy. Parties around Christmas time are typically referred to as Posadas, and they include hot food and drinks, music, and a good time.
Saint Lucy’s day
On St. Lucia’s Day, churches, town halls, schools, offices, and restaurants are transformed into a glowing sea of candlelight. A highlight of the celebration is the Lucia train procession, where a young girl chosen to portray St. Lucia leads the way. She wears a white gown with a red sash and a crown of candles, followed by Lucia handmaidens, star boys, and gingerbread men, all carrying candles. This tradition mirrors the story of St. Lucia, who is said to have brought food to persecuted Christians, guiding her way with the light of candles.
