▷ What Do You Give For Hanukkah Gifts?

Hanukkah, more often known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish festival that celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Every year, during the time of Hanukkah, Jews mark the occasion by giving and receiving gifts from family and friends. But what do you give for Hanukkah gifts?

Hanukkah gifts don’t need to be complicated or expensive — it’s the thought behind them that matters the most. What’s important is that gifts are appropriate and relevant to the recipient — something they will appreciate, use, and remember.

Table of Contents

1 Traditional Hanukkah Gifts

Traditional Hanukkah Gifts

Hanukkah gifts often involve items relating to the celebration and symbolism of Hanukkah. Popular gifts include:

Menorah

A menorah is a Hanukkah candelabra and is probably one of the most popular gifts. It is used to light the shamash, which in turn is used to light the other eight candles on each night of Hanukkah.

Jewish Coins

Hanukkah coins, also known as Chanukkah gelt (Yiddish for money) are also a popular gift. A traditional Hanukkah gift for children, these special coins are either real or chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil.

Hannukah Dreidel

A dreidel is a four-sided spinning top which is played with during Hanukkah. Each side is marked with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet and the letters are an acronym for “A great miracle happened there” in Hebrew. The dreidel is used during a game and is a traditional Hanukkah gift.

Hanukkah Presents

Hanukkah presents can range from small trinkets or toys to large gifts of jewellery and books. If in doubt, giving gift cards or presents in a gift basket is always a good idea. Present ideas depend on the age, likes, and interests of the recipient, and as with any gift, it should be thoughtful and considerate.

Tzedakah

Tzedakah is charity, and although not a traditional gift for Hanukkah, it’s worth considering. Making a donation in someone’s name to a charity or cause they support is a thoughtful and meaningful gift that can also make a difference. Hanukkah is a special time of year and is one of the most widely celebrated Jewish holidays in the year. Marking the occasion with appropriate and thoughtful Hanukkah gifts shows your love and appreciation for those you care about, and it is often the small gifts that mean the most. Whatever you decide to give, it’s important to be thoughtful and considerate, and know that the gift is intended to bring light and happiness into the lives of those you honor.

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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.