The holiday season is a time for family, community, and celebration, but for Black families, the traditions that have been passed down through generations are particularly meaningful. These customs connect us to our rich cultural heritage and remind us of the resilience and joy that have defined the Black experience.
Kwanzaa, an annual celebration of African culture, takes place from December 26 to January 1, is one example. The annual holiday was created in 1966 during the height of the Black Freedom Movement. Founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga, an activist and distinguished professor of Africana Studies at California State University, Long Beach, Kwanzaa is deeply rooted in the harvest festivals of Africa. The holiday holds profound cultural significance for many African Americans and communities within the African diaspora. The name “Kwanzaa” is derived from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning “first fruits,” which reflects the tradition of celebrating the harvest and the contributions of African ancestors.
Kwanzaa’s symbolism is expressed through its colors and practices. The holiday’s colors—red, green, and black—represent the core values of unity and the shared history of Africans worldwide. The black candle, placed in the center of the kinara (candleholder), symbolizes the African diaspora. The three red candles stand for the struggle and perseverance of African people, while the three green candles represent hope, renewal, and the promise of a brighter future born from the resilience of the diaspora.
Each day during Kwanzaa, families light one of the seven candles, known as mishumaa saba, on the kinara. These candles represent the Nguzo Saba, or the Seven Principles, which form the foundation of the holiday. Created by Karenga, the principles are umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (collective work and responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economics), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity), and imani (faith).
As each candle is lit, families gather to reflect on the day’s principle, discussing its meaning and how it can be applied in everyday life. This daily practice fosters a deeper understanding of African heritage, encourages personal growth, and strengthens the bonds of community. Through Kwanzaa, families honor their cultural roots, celebrate the achievements of the past, and commit to building a brighter future together.
Here are nine more holidays and traditions widely celebrated in Black American families that we should continue to honor and pass down through generations.
10 Black Holiday Traditions We Should Never Forget
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1. Soul Food Feasts
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Holiday meals in Black households are not just about food—tradition, family, and togetherness. Soul food is a cornerstone of Black holiday gatherings, featuring dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, sweet potato pie, mac and cheese, and more. These meals have roots in both African culinary traditions and the creativity of enslaved Africans who made do with limited ingredients. Sharing these dishes on holidays, especially Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, is a way of honoring family history and maintaining cultural ties.
A 2023 study by Think Now revealed that Black families invest significantly in making their holiday gatherings memorable. On average, Black families spend $439 during the Christmas season, compared to $469 among non-Black families.
2. The “Watch Night” Service on New Year’s Eve
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A deeply significant tradition in many Black churches, Watch Night services on New Year’s Eve have their origins in 1862, when enslaved Africans gathered in churches to await the Emancipation Proclamation’s signing, according to the VOA. Now, many Black families attend church services on New Year’s Eve to give thanks for the past year and pray for blessings in the year ahead. The service is a reminder of the perseverance and strength of those who came before us.
3. Christmas Caroling and Gift Giving
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Black families often celebrate Christmas by coming together for caroling and holiday parties. These gatherings are filled with music, dancing, and games, and are a way for families to express joy and solidarity. Christmas carols, especially gospel and spiritual songs, hold deep spiritual and cultural significance, and singing them is a way of connecting to our history and celebrating the present moment.
One of the most fun and anticipated traditions at Black Christmas holiday gatherings is the “Big Reveal,” where gifts are exchanged and the best presents are revealed dramatically. Whether it’s a new outfit, a special piece of jewelry, or a toy for the kids, the excitement and joy that come with this moment highlight the spirit of giving and love that defines the holiday season in Black families and makes for unforgettable moments.
4. Eating Black-Eyed Peas on New Year’s Day
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The tradition of eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day has deep roots in various cultural beliefs. Some say the swelling of the peas as they cook symbolizes abundance and prosperity for the year ahead. In many Black households, this dish is accompanied by a generous helping of collard greens, a pairing that adds to the symbolism. The dark, rich color of the greens is often thought to represent wealth and financial success.
For an added touch, many families cook the peas with tomatoes—a tradition noted by Southern Living. This flavorful addition is believed to symbolize health and wellness as you begin the new year.
5. Easter Sunday Celebration
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Easter Sunday holds a special place in Black holiday traditions, combining spiritual observance with family gatherings. For many, the day begins with attending church services, where families come together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Afterward, the focus shifts to a hearty meal with loved ones. The tradition of gathering for a large Easter dinner, often featuring dishes like baked ham, fried chicken, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and cornbread, is a moment for family bonding.
It’s also a time for children to enjoy Easter egg hunts, while elders pass down stories of faith, resilience, and community. Easter Sunday serves as a reminder of both spiritual renewal and the importance of family ties.
6. The Tradition of “First Footing” on New Year’s Day
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First Footing is a tradition where the first person to enter a home after midnight on New Year’s Eve is thought to bring luck and prosperity for the year ahead. In many Black families, this person is often chosen based on certain qualities—such as being tall, dark-haired, or a family member who is considered fortunate. This tradition, rooted in African and Caribbean influences, is a way of ushering in good fortune and positive energy for the year.
According to the Philly Trib, the tradition of “first footing” (also known as the “Lucky Bird”) dictates that, even if the individual is a resident of the home, they should knock and be let in rather than using a key. Regardless of gender, the first footer is expected to arrive with gifts, bringing good luck and blessings for the year ahead.
7. Fourth of July Cookout
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While the Fourth of July is a national holiday, for many Black families, it has special significance. Many celebrate the day by gathering with family and friends, sharing meals, and enjoying fireworks during a lively cookout. Think Now found that for the Fourth of July, the majority of Black families celebrate by coming together with loved ones (73%) and preparing special meals (40%), making it a time for connection, celebration, and tradition.
During the cookout, grilled delicacies like hotdogs and burgers are often served as the family dances, and drinks, enjoying each other’s company. Despite the historical complexities of the holiday, which celebrates freedom while slavery was still legal for African Americans, many use the day as an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the continued fight for justice and equality.
8. Memorial Day
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Memorial Day is an important holiday for many Black families, particularly as it provides an opportunity to honor and remember the contributions of Black veterans. Whether attending parades, visiting cemeteries, or reflecting on the sacrifices made by Black soldiers, Memorial Day is a time to pay tribute to the men and women who served in the armed forces and fought for freedom and equality, both at home and abroad. It’s also a day for family gatherings, cookouts, and spending time with loved ones.
9. Juneteenth BBQ
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Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas finally received news of their emancipation, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. For Black Americans, Juneteenth is not only a celebration of freedom but also a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.
Traditions surrounding Juneteenth vary across families and communities, but common elements include family reunions, barbecues, parades, and festivals. These celebrations often feature music, dancing, and storytelling, with a focus on honoring the history and resilience of Black people. Many also take time on Juneteenth to reflect on the progress that has been made and to reaffirm their commitment to continue fighting for racial justice and equality.