Hanukkah is an important holiday in the Jewish religion. Celebrated annually between the 25th of Kislev and the 5th of Tevet, it is a time for families and friends to gather and honor Jewish tradition, as well as to recognize the importance of freedom of religion. This year, Hanukkah is due to end on Sunday, March 14th 2021.
When Does Hanukkah Begin – and End?
The dates of Hanukkah change every year in the Gregorian calendar – the non-Jewish calendar system used by most of the world, including the US, Canada and many other countries. This year, Hanukkah will begin on Thursday, December 10th, and end on Sunday, March 14th 2021.
What Happens During Hanukkah?
Hanukkah is an eight-day festival of light and joy. During the holiday, people light the nine-branched menorah which symbolizes the miracles that occurred during the Hanukkah period. Each night of the festival, another candle is lit until all eight candles burn brightly. Other activities may include singing Hanukkah songs, eating traditional Hanukkah foods, playing games, and exchanging gifts.
The first day of Hanukkah is known as Kislev 25. On this day, the menorah is lit with one flame and an additional flame is added each day, with the full complement of eight lights being reached on the seventh evening. The final night of Hanukkah, known as Shmini Atzeret, is the “Eighth-Day of Assembly” or as is mentioned in the Talmud, “The Day of Place.”
How Can I Celebrate Hanukkah?
While each family and community celebrates Hanukkah differently, there are certain traditions that many follow.
- Lighting the menorah: Each night of the holiday, people light the menorah with one additional candle, remembering the miracle of enough oil lasting for eight days.
- Eating traditional Hanukkah foods: Foods fried in oil, like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (doughnuts), are popular foods to mark the occasions.
- Playing games: Spinning the dreidel is a popular game played during Hanukkah in which people use a spinning top with four sides marked with which Hebrew letters that stand for the phrase “A Great Miracle Happened Here.”
- Exchanging gifts: Since the holiday lasts for eight days, it is customary to give a small gift each night.
Hanukkah, the festival of lights, is a revered and important part of the Jewish faith. It is a time for families and friends to honor Jewish history and remember the importance of religious freedom. This year, Hanukkah will end on Sunday, March 14th 2021. Whether you celebrate with a large family gathering or a smaller intimate event, take the time to enjoy the holiday and all it has to offer.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.