Starting from the 25th of Kislev, Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days, with the first day referred to as the first day of Hanukkah. On this day, the first candle of a nine-branched menorah is lit, and the family celebrates with traditional food, music, and decorations.
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The First Day Of Hanukkah Traditions
Lighting the Menorah
The most important tradition in the celebration of Hanukkah is lighting the menorah, or Hanukkiah. This is done every evening of the eight days of Hanukkah and is usually done right after the sun sets. The first candle is lit on the first night and is followed by an additional candlestick each night, with all nine candlesticks lit on the eighth and final night of Hanukkah.
Eating Latkes
Latkes are one of the most popular foods eaten during Hanukkah. They are potato pancakes made by grating potatoes and frying them in oil, usually with some onion. This is a way of honoring the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days. Other traditional Hanukkah foods include brisket, sufganiot (jelly doughnuts), and kugel (noodle pudding).
Playing Dreidel
Another popular tradition is playing the game of Dreidel, which is a spinning top with a Hebrew letter on each of its four sides. Players put an equal amount of “coins” (traditionally gelt – chocolate coins) into a pile and take it in turns to spin the Dreidel. Depending on which side the Dreidel lands on, the player either gets to take some coins from the pile, put more coins in, or nothing happens.
Gifts for Children
Traditionally, it was customary for the father of the family to give his children a small present on the first night of each of the eight nights of Hanukkah. These days, gifts are often replaced with money, but can also be small toys or books.
The celebration of Hanukkah has become a strong part of Jewish tradition, and the customs and rituals associated with it are enjoyed by Jewish people all over the world. Lighting the menorah, eating Latkes, playing Dreidel and giving gifts are just some of the traditions that are celebrated on the first day of Hanukkah, with each day bringing more fun and celebrations.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.