The week-long holiday of Kwanzaa, an annual observance of African-American heritage and culture, starts Wednesday, Dec. 26.

Founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966, Kwanzaa is modeled after the "first fruits" celebrations in ancient Africa, according to officialkwanzaawebsite.org. During the week, families focus on seven principles, one each day: 

1. Umoja (Unity)
2. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
3. Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
4. Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
5. Nia (Purpose)
6. Kuumba (Creativity)
7. Imani (Faith)

Families light candles, pour libations to honor the memory of lost loved ones, enjoy a festive meal and gift-giving.

The African American Family Network of Farmington and Farmington Hills hosted a Kwanzaa celebration on Dec. 1 at the Farmington Community Library Main Library, to provide families with information about the holiday and encourage them to celebrate, organizers said. 

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