Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday commemorating the miracle of the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, which happened in the second century BC. It is usually observed for eight days, beginning on the 25th of the Jewish month of Kislev and lasting until the 3rd of Tevet. Hanukkah is celebrated by families all around the world by lighting the special candelabrum (called a Menorah) with eight branches, each branch lit with a candle or oil lamp. The celebration culminates in a big feast on the last day of the holiday, which includes traditional foods and special blessings for the family.
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What is Hanukkah for Kids?
Hanukkah is a wonderful holiday for kids, as it celebrates miracles and traditions that our ancestors have preserved for centuries. For children, it is also a fun holiday marked with special activities and treats. During Hanukkah, kids learn the story of the Maccabean Revolt – the fight of the small Jewish army against the occupying Seleucids, as well as the victory in re-dedicating the Temple.
Menorah
One of the most special symbols of the holiday is the eight-branched menorah. A menorah is lit each night of Hanukkah, and one branch is lit extra branch called the “Shamash.”Each night of the holiday, the shamash is used to light one of the other eight branches. This way, as the holiday progresses, more and more branches are lit. The menorah also symbolizes the importance of keeping your faith alive.
Traditions
On each night of Hanukkah, it is customary to gather around the menorah and recite special blessings. After that, the menorah is lit and games and activities begin. One of the most popular Hanukkah pastimes is the dreidel game. Traditionally, a dreidel is a four-sided top with different letters inscribed on each side. Depending on the letter that is spun, the players take turns either adding, keeping, or forfeiting their items.
Foods
Like any holiday, Hanukkah foods are an important part of the celebration. Special fried foods like latkes (potato pancakes) and Sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) are eaten to commemorate a special miracle involving oil that is part of the Hanukkah story. In addition to traditional treats, kids typically look forward to receiving or buying chocolate coins (Hanukkah gelt) to snack on while playing games.
Hanukkah is an important time for formation of traditions, strengthening faith, and celebrating together as a family. For kids, Hanukkah is a wonderful holiday filled with games and treats that make it truly memorable and special.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.