Hanukkah is an upcoming Jewish holiday, usually occurring during the 8 day period from Kislev 25th to Tevet 2nd, or from December 10th to 18th this year. On Hanukkah people express their joy with colourful decorations, music, gifts, and traditions such as lighting a menorah, eating latkes, or spinning a dreidel. Wishing someone “Happy Hanukkah” is another way to share good wishes for the holiday with friends and family. So, when do you wish someone a “Happy Hanukkah”?
To decide when to wish Happy Hanukkah, it’s important to understand the basics of the holiday. The celebration of Hanukkah usually starts on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev. For 2020 that day is December 10th. On that day, wishes for the holiday are usually exchanged and the Hanukkah festivities are kicked off.
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Hanukkah Candle Lighting
The main tradition of Hanukkah is to light the 8 lights of the Hanukkah menorah (sometimes called chanukiah or hannukiah). This is a nine-branched candelabrum lit by people to remember the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after the Jewish Maccabean Revolt of the second century BCE. People light one candle on the first night of Hanukkah, two on the second night, and so on, so by the time all 8 candles are lit on the eighth night, it is a remarkable display of light.
Do You Need to Light the Menorah?
Although the candle lighting of the menorah is something that is usually done as an act of public celebration, it is not absolutely essential to do it in order to properly celebrate Hanukkah. Many Jewish families do not light a menorah at all and still find meaningful ways to celebrate the holiday.
When to Wish Someone Happy Hanukkah?
Generally, you can wish someone “Happy Hanukkah” at any time during the holiday period, which this year runs from December 10th to 18th. You can also send cards and flowers during this same period. However, it is best to send these greetings early in the week so that you know the person will receive them before the holiday starts. Sending your wishes earlier also gives your friends and family more time to enjoy the holiday.
A Special Custom
Wishing someone a “Happy Hanukkah” is a special custom in many parts of the world and it is usually done on the night of the first day of the celebration. This is a nice way to offer a meaningful gesture of celebrating the holiday. In some cultures, it is also customary to give a gift or sweet badelach, or traditional Jewish treats such as fried latkes, or apples dipped in honey.
In summary, when do you wish someone a “Happy Hanukkah”? The answer is usually anytime between the start of the holiday on the 25th of Kislev and during the entire 8-day Hanukkah period. It’s always a nice gesture to offer your best wishes and a token of friendship during this festive time. To share the joy of Hanukkah, consider wishing someone “Happy Hanukkah” on the first night of the celebration.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.