▷ Hanukkah How To Celebrate?

Hanukkah is a special festival that celebrates the miracle of light and joy. Jews of all denominations come together and rejoice the eight days that commemorate the re-dedication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Every night, a candle is lit to symbolize the miracle that took place. For those wishing to learn more about how to celebrate Hanukkah, here is a short guide.

Table of Contents

1 Light the Menorah
- 1.1 The Blessing of Light
2 Playing the Dreidel Game
3 Eating Special Hanukkah Foods

Light the Menorah

The Menorah is the official emblem of Hanukkah. It has eight branches and one central candle, representing the days of the holiday. Each evening, a new mitzvah (special commandment) is performed as one of the candles is lit. Traditionally, it is recommended to light the Menorah and say prayers in front of it.

The Blessing of Light

The first night of Hanukkah is always the lighting of the Shamash, a candle that is used to light up all the other candles. The Blessing of Light is said each night as the candles are lit, gratitude for the miracle brought by God.

The Blessing of Light is said in Hebrew, but also has English translations so all family members can recite it together.
When the your family recites the Blessing of Light in Hebrew, it should be done in unison.

Playing the Dreidel Game

The Dreidel is a four sided spinning top. It has four Hebrew letters imprinted on each side representing, “A great miracle happened here”. It is used as part of a game which is traditionally played at Hanukkah. Here are the basic rules:

Players try to collect as many Hanukkah coins as possible by spinning the dreidel.
The winner of each spin collects coins from the pot or from other players.
Players can collect Hanukkah coins freely from the pot or they can ask other players for coins.
When a player has no coins left, that player is out of the game.
The last player with coins remaining, is the winner of the game.

Eating Special Hanukkah Foods

Hanukkah wouldn’t be complete without eating special Hanukkah treats. Traditional foods such as potato latkes and sufganiyot are cooked as part of the Hanukkah celebration.

Potato Latkes are fried pancakes made out of grated potatoes, onions, eggs and flour.
Sufganiyot are deep-fried donuts with different toppings such as sugar, chocolate or fruit jams.
Applesauce and Sour Cream are served as a side-dish to the latkes.

Celebrating Hanukkah is a joyous occasion that marks a miraculous event in Jewish history. By lighting the Menorah, saying the blessings, and eating traditional Hanukkah foods, families and friends can join together in the spirit of this special holiday.

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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.