Hanukkah What Day? is a popular question for those who are familiar with the Festival of Lights. Hanukkah, or the “Festival of Lights”, is a Jewish celebration of rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. It begins on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, which often falls in December. On each of the eight nights of Hanukkah, a candle is lit in commemoration of the bravery and faith of the ancient Maccabees who fought to keep the religion and practices of Judaism alive.
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What Day Does Hanukkah Begin and How Long Does It Last?
Hanukkah officially begins on the 25th day of Kislev, the ninth month of the Hebrew calendar. The Hebrew calendar is based on a lunar cycle, so the date changes from year to year. In 2018, it began on the evening of Sunday, December 2 and continued until the evening of Monday, December 10. In 2019, it will begin on the evening of Sunday, December 22 and will end on the evening of Monday, December 30.
How is Hanukkah Celebrated?
Hanukkah is celebrated over eight nights and days with a variety of traditions. On the first night, an extra candle (called the “shamash”) is lit to light all the others that follow it each night. These candles are placed on a special menorah, or nine-branched candelabra, with a holder for the shamash at the center.
On each of the eight nights, a special service is held in the synagogue in which thanks is given to G-d for performing the miracles of Hanukkah. The prayers are followed by a festive meal, during which the lighting of one more candle in the menorah is remembered. Other activities related to the festival include singing songs, playing dreidel (a spinning top game) and exchanging gifts.
Gifts
Gifts are given to children and adults both during Hanukkah. The most popular gift for children is the traditional dreidel set with four wooden or plastic spinning tops and a pile of coins or candy. Other gifts can include Hanukkah gelt (coins), books, chocolate coins or anything else that is meaningful or fun.
Foods
The most traditional food during Hanukkah is deep-fried, either in oil or in fat. The custom is based on the miracle of the oil, which according to tradition, lasted for 8 nights, and is connected to the custom of preparing Hanukkah foods that require oil. Traditional foods include latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts).
In conclusion, Hanukkah is a special holiday and is celebrated on the 25th day of Kislev, the ninth month of the Hebrew calendar. It is celebrated over eight nights and is commemorated with prayers, the lighting of a Hanukkah Menorah, exchanging gifts, and traditional foods such as latkes and sufganiyot. Hanukkah is a time to remember miracles and give thanks to G-d for one of the most important events in Jewish history.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.