Kwanzaa, the African holiday that celebrates seven main principles including unity, self-determination, collective work, responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith, takes place December 26 through January 7.

Tiana Brown, junior in liberal studies, said Ames area and ISU community families will present the seven principles at a Kwanzaa celebration, tentatively set for December 7. The celebration will incorporate aspects of the traditional religious celebration.

She said the celebration will take place early due to students being on winter break during the actual holiday.

Dr. Carlie Tartakov, ISU lecturer, said, “Before it was primarily based in the community. Then students wanted it earlier so they could celebrate before they left.”

Brown said Tartakov will serve as keynote speaker, focusing on the principles and history of Kwanzaa.

Tartakov said the celebration will be unique this year, and she’s hoping for a larger student turnout because of the early date.

“This year we are trying to combine the university and also the Ames community.”

The celebration will include an educational portion to inform individuals about Kwanzaa, an entertainment portion with dancers and singers and a food portion with traditional African-American finger foods and dishes.