Kwanzaa Costume

The holiday, Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration of African American heritage and culture celebrated every year from December 26 to January 1. It is focused on family and strength and was first originated by Ron Karenga. In some ways was meant to be an alternative to Christmas and other holidays but is now often celebrated alongside those events. Kwanzaa has encountered plenty of controversy with some saying that it's not the same as other holidays because it was invented recently. However, it's gained a foothold in the United States as a uniquely African American celebration. And many people honor this holiday with food, elaborate costumery and family.

The clothing worn for Kwanzaa is often African in origin. Women can wear kaftans, also known as the boubou which is a dress wrapped around the body and made of brightly dyed woven fabric. The dashiki is a shirt or full length suit worn by men and is also made of brightly colored cloth.

You can also create elaborate body art with paint in the colors of Kwanzaa. These are red, green and black paint. Set up an activity for the kids at the celebration to create body art or simply draw face paint on each other.

Costumes for your Kwanzaa celebration will be similar to the kaftans and dashiki with hats often made of cloth of the same color. For extra involvement in your Kwanzaa consider making your costumes if you have sewing experience.

Be the spirit of the Kwanzaa with Kwanzaa Costumes. The Party Supplies Hut is an online party store with Kwanzaa Costumes.  Don't run (or drive) all around town.  It is so simple to buy at the Party Supplies Hut!