Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrated for eight days and nights. It starts on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev, which usually falls in December. Hanukkah is a joyous time of year, and it is celebrated with the lighting of the Menorah, feasting, exchanging gifts, and telling stories from the Hebrew Bible. This article will tell you all about what do you do in Hanukkah and how to make it a special and unique celebration.
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Lighting the Menorah
On each night of Hanukkah, a special nine-branched candelabrum called a Menorah is lit. It is called a Menorah because it looks like a tree, and it is considered to be the Tree of Life. Traditionally, the Menorah is lit with either oil or wax candles. On the first night, one candle is lit. Each night another candle is added until all nine are lit.
Exchanging Gifts
Exchanging gifts is another favorite part of Hanukkah. A special game called dreidel is often played. This game is played with an four-sided spinning top. A dreidel is inscribed with the four Hebrew letters Nun, Gimmel, Hey, and Shin which stand for “A great miracle happened there.” Other gifts that can be exchanged on Hanukkah are chocolate coins, or gelt, which symbolize the coins given away by the Macabees when they were victorious in reclaiming the Temple in Jerusalem.
Celebratory Food
A special breakfast is often served on the morning of each day of Hanukkah. It is usually a dairy meal, as dairy foods are seen as especially lucky. These meals can include pancakes, cheesecake, or blintzes. Traditionally, a special food called latkes is served. Latkes are potato pancakes that are fried in oil, in recognition of the miracle of the oil lasting eight days.
Storytelling and Singing
On Hanukkah, stories of the Macabees and their struggle against the Syrian Greek forces are often told. It is a time for families to come together to share their traditions and culture. Singing traditional Hanukkah songs is another way to celebrate the holiday.
Hanukkah is a special time of the year, and it is celebrated in many different ways. It is a time to remember Jewish history, and to celebrate family and tradition. It is also a great time to give gifts, play games, share stories, and enjoy the special foods of the holiday. Whether it is lighting the Menorah, exchanging gifts, or telling stories, Hanukkah is a special holiday that brings families and cultures together.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.