Ask the Expert: My co-worker celebrates Kwanzaa and I would like to send him a gift to show my respect for his culture. Would flowers be an appropriate gift for a Kwanzaa celebration?

Shelly,

Kwanzaa means "first fruits" and originates from the first harvest celebrations of Africa. Gifts are mainly given to children and include a book and a heritage symbol. Since Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday I would suggest sending a fruit gift basket since the fruit represents a valued part of their culture — the harvest and particularly the celebration of thanks and respect for the harvest.

Just a little extra Kwanzaa information:

Kwanzaa is celebrated for seven days — beginning Dec 26th and celebrated until the end of Jan 1st.

Kwanzaa is a time to honor and respect one's elders and heritage. Family and community play an important part in Kwanzaa. It is not a religious holiday.

Related posts:

1. Fruit and Gourmet Gift Baskets
2. Canadian Thanksgiving 2007
3. Thanksgiving: More than one day to be thankful
4. Flower Etiquette For Hanukkah.
5. A Bounty Of Gift Basket Ideas