Kwanzaa is an African American and pan-African holiday which celebrates family, community, and culture. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor of Africana Studies and is celebrated from December 26 through January 1. During the week of Kwanzaa, families and communities organize activities around the seven principles: unity, self-determination, collective work, economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.