BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) -- The day after Christmas is the first day of Kwanzaa, a seven-day celebration of African-American culture that began in 1966. The second day of Kwanzaa symbolizes "Kujichagulia," or self-determination. "Kwanzaa lasts for seven days, December 26 through January 1," said Bakari Sanyu, Director of the Sankofa Collective. The holiday was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga. "Kwanzaa began in the middle of the African-American freedom movement during the 1960s," Sanyu said. "Kwanzaa was created to restore African tradition among African-American people." "Kwanzaa" comes from a Swahili phrase which means "first fruits." This is symbolized with fruits and vegetables on the Kwanzaa table, which is adorned with many symbolic decorations. "There are seven candles, one candle for each day of the event. The candle holder represents African-Americans," Sanyu said. "The fruits and vegetables are called 'Mazao', which represents that Kwanzaa is a harvest festival. The mat represents tradition, which all things are placed on." One of the most important purposes for Kwanzaa is to educate the current, and next, generation of their history and culture. "It allows me to recognize where I came from, why I am here, and to always improve and do more for the next generation coming up behind us," said Sanyu.