The holiday season is in full swing. The month of December brings alot of activities: shopping, traveling, family get together, gift giving, and holiday parties. There is so much to do and each holiday has its own unique traditions and celebrations.
The main holidays in the month of December are Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Let's take a look at their meanings and traditions.
Hanukkah is also known as the Festival of Lights. In Hebrew, the word Hanukkah means "dedication" . Hanukkah is a Jewish celebration that lasts for 8 days. Hanukkah is a time to appreciate all we have to be thankful for. Jewish families get together and light the Menorah. A Menorah holds 9 candles in 1 holder. One candle is lit each night. Hanukkah celebrations can include singing songs, reading Psalms and exchanging gifts.
Christmas is celebrated on December 25th of each year to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas is celebrated with decorations, gift giving, music and of course a Christmas Tree. On Christmas morning families get together to exchange gifts and enjoy a meal together.
Kwanzaa is a week long celebration with core principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Kwanzaa in Swahili means " First Fruit". Kwanzaa celebrations include colorful decorations, candle lighting ceremonies, family feast and gift exchange.
