You don’t necessarily have to pull out a kinara, the large candle holder that carries the seven candles for the week, to honor the celebration of Kwanzaa. Happening from December 26 to January 1, you can take part by focusing on the principles that are core to the festivities: Umoja, for unity; Kujichagulia, for self-determination; Ujima, for collective work; Ujamaa, for collective prosperity through community-centered economics; Nia, for purpose; Kuumba, for creativity, and Imani, meaning faith. Overall, it’s a time to honor our culture, the Black community, and our purpose: to uplift our people. Why wouldn’t you want to take part?
Another way to celebrate is to shop Black! To support Black creatives and Black-owned businesses going into the holiday week—and beyond. To help you do that, from our WeLoveUs.Shop marketplace, which centers Black creatives, we’ve pulled together some must-have items to get you in the spirit of Kwanazaa. Rooted in intention, creativity, and heritage, these finds celebrate Black excellence while encouraging us to shop with purpose and pour back into our communities.
01
01
IreAje 11 Adinkra We-R-One Bracelet
Adinkra symbols are designs embraced by people in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire that reflect proverbs, history, and more. Each has special meaning, and 11 of them (God, love, peace, abundance, tradition, protection, partnership, security, strength, endurance, and independence) are featured on this stunning bracelet.
02
ESSENCE Festival Of Culture 2026 3-Day Weekend Package
EFOC weekend will be back and in full effect! Including performances from a who’s who of headliners, and three days worth of programming and experiences at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Get in the spirit for the fun early and cop your early-bird tickets for the weekend’s concerts for less.
03
Melanin Meanings Nguzo Saba Kwanzaa Principles Pencil Set
Nothing reminds you of the principles of Kwanzaa more than this set of black pencils, with gold-foil stamping featuring all seven days, from Umoja to Imani.
06
Trufacebygrace Frema Kandy Wrapped Ankara Fabric Neckpiece
The rich colors and prints found on Ankara fabric, popularly worn in West Africa, also make for a stunning statement piece of jewelry to rock around the neck.
10
I AM HER Apparel Brown Skin Girl Women’s Bangle Bracelet
As the song says, it’s the “best thing in the world” to be a brown skin girl. Wear it with confidence and style thanks to this chic bangle that comes in sterling silver and gold-plated options.
We aren’t shrinking ourselves or our love for our culture Kwanzaa week and going into 2026! It’s also always a good time to prep and plan for what’s to come, and this colorful tool can certainly help.
