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Kwanza, observes the African American cultural contributions beginning on the 26 of December through the 1st of January. A relatively new addition to the holiday season, this festival was initiated in 1966 by Maulana Karnaga. It is a Festival of Lights similar the Jewish celebration of Hanukkah. Kwanza culminates on the sixth day with a communal feast called Karamu. This is based on the harvest festival traditions of African lore. Boxing Day…. the day after Christmas….is when the indentured help of jolly old England, and their colonies, were given a rare day off, to celebrate the holiday after serving Christmas Feast for the Lord and Lady of the house. Cheers! There was a time, during the reign of Cromwell in the English Commonwealth around the mid-17th century, that the Rump Parliament prohibited the singing of carols as an offensive practice that was Pagan and sinful. Our founding fathers of the Puritan faith followed suit. Amazing to think of banning the celebration of Love and generosity. Thank goodness things have changed. The real spirit of this season, one of warmth and happiness shall always be our guiding principle. After all, Every Day is a Holiday, a celebration of Life! Our lineup of musical entertainment will consist of some of the earlier carols that were generated when the Victorian Era had a resurgence that continues to this very day. “Silent Night”, “O Little Town Of Bethlehem”, O Holy Night” being some of the more recognizable. Here at home, “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”, written in 1934 by Coots and Gillespie, is The most played holiday song in the past half century. Eddie Cantor was the first to perform the tune on his radio program in that year. Most singers and groups have recorded at least one collection of Christmas songs. “Elvis’ Christmas Album” is THE most sought after collection selling well over 20 million copies worldwide. 
Enjoy this holiday season, with merriment and joy. Staying safe and well is only common sense. May this New Year bring about a healthier world…where Love and Joy prevails. God Bless and stay sane!
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