Hanukkah is an annual Jewish festival that is celebrated for eight days in late November or early December each year. The holiday is observed in remembrance of the miracle of oil that lasted for eight days when the Macabbees fought for the temple. While Hanukkah is principally celebrated through Sabbath services, public gatherings, the lighting of a nine branched menorah, or a shamash, and by eating potato pancakes (latkes), there are many other activities associated with the festival.
Playing Dreidel
The most popular game associated with Hanukkah is dreidel. During this game, four-sided spinning tops are used, each side with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Players begin with a certain amount of gelt (coins or chocolate money) and take turns spinning the dreidel, gaining gelt depending on which side the dreidel lands. The game has rules that vary slightly regionally, but it’s typically a cumulative game with each round’s winner attempting to amass all the gelt.
Giving Gifts
It is customary for family members to give one another small gifts as part of the Hanukkah celebration. These tokens of affection can be both large and small, but they are often symbolic, meaningful objects that speak to the bond between the loving family and friends. Traditional gifts exchanged during Hanukkah include candles, chocolate coins, books, Hanukkah gelt (coins), dreidels, and small toys.
Baking and Cooking
A much-loved Hanukkah activity is baking and cooking. From latkes (potato pancakes) to donuts (sufganiyot), baking and cooking is an essential part of celebrating Hanukkah. As a reminder of the miracle of oil, many recipes call for oil as an ingredient or are cooked in oil. One of the most popular desserts during Hanukkah is the Jelly Doughnut which is usually served filled with jelly.
Donating to Charity
In the spirit of Hanukkah, many people donate or give charity to those in need. This may be done through donations to charity organizations directly, or by giving to those in the community around you. The tradition of tzedakah, or charity and giving back to the community, is a long-standing Jewish custom, and it is often celebrated during Hanukkah.
The importance of Hanukkah is widely accepted; however, its traditional activities vary regionally. Regardless, it’s a great opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends, commemorate a miracle, and express the joy of giving. It’s an important part of the Jewish identity, and a great opportunity to participate in traditional and beloved activities.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.