The main decoration is a kinara, a candleholder for seven candles. Three red candles sit to the left, three green to the right and there is a central black candle which is lit first. A candle is lit each day alternating between red and green, which directly link to the seven principles or Nguzo Saba. The kinara and the seven candles are two of the seven symbols used during Kwanzaa. The other symbols are a shared unity cup called Kikombe cha Umoja to represent the family and community. All drink from it and a little is poured as a remembrance to past ancestors. There is Mazao or shared crops and the Muhindi is an ear of corn for each child in the family, representing the future. Finally, the Zawadi are the gifts for children. These usually have an educational basis or remind them of their African heritage.