Hanukkah is a Jewish festival of lights celebrated for 8 days towards the end of the Jewish year. It remembers the miracle of a single jar of oil that burned for 8 days and nights after the Maccabees successfully drove out the Greeks and reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Today, many aspects of the festival remain the same, with certain rituals performed and food prepared, but different customs have emerged throughout the generations. So, how do you celebrate Hanukkah?
Lighting the Menorah
The Menorah is the most important element of Hanukkah since it symbolizes the 8 days that the oil miraculously burned. On each night of Hanukkah, a special blessings is recited and an additional candle is lit. On the first night, the Shamash, or the ‘servant’ candle is lit at an angle and is used to light all the other candles placed equally on the Menorah. Traditionally, the Menorah is situated next to the window so that the message of Hanukkah can be seen from outside.
Gifts and Treats
Gifts and treats are a big part of every culture’s celebrations, and Hanukkah is no exception. On each night of the holiday, Jews around the world exchange gifts with their families and friends. The traditional gift given is Gelt, or coins made of either chocolate or real money enclosed in a festive foil wrapper. Playing dreidel is a classic Hanukkah pastime, which is accompanied by each player getting a small portion of Gelt at the end. It is usually sweet gourmet treats like cookies and cakes given as gifts to friends and family or served during festive meals. Most of these treats are made with oil to commemorate the miraculous event.
Special Foods
Throughout the 8 days of Hanukkah, there are many special foods prepared. The most common dish is the Latkes, which is made with grated potatoes and fried in oil in the same way that the Jewish Maccabees cooked the oil that lasted 8 days. Another traditional dish served during the holiday is a type of jelly doughnut called the Sufganiyot. Since this dessert is fried in oil, it also commemorates the Hanukkah miracle.
In many ways, today’s Hanukkah celebrations allow families to come together and share the unique customs of their faith. From the traditional meals, to the games, to the gifts, there is always something special to look forward to. It is a joyous holiday that is filled with lots of family fun and traditions that have been celebrated everywhere for many years.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.