Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrated for eight nights each year, and while there are many similarities in celebration from year to year, it can be different in some ways too. Why is Hanukkah different each year? This article will explore the answer to this question and provide several examples of how the holiday can vary in important ways.
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What Determines the Date of Hanukkah?
Hanukkah is observed on the 25th day of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar, which is a lunar (moon-based) calendar. This means that the date falls on a different day each year according to the Hebrew calendar, and the date on the Gregorian calendar will vary each year as well. In 2019, for example, Hanukkah began on Sunday, December 22nd, while in 2020 it began on Thursday, December 10th.
8 Days of Festive Celebrations
The holiday of Hanukkah is celebrated for eight nights and days, and this is something that remains consistent from year to year. On each night of the holiday, a candle is lit on the family Hanukkah menorah, adding an extra candle for each successive night. There are also traditional songs and blessings associated with the lighting ceremony.
Gift Giving Customs for Hanukkah
The gift-giving aspect of Hanukkah is another factor that can vary from year to year, depending upon the family’s financial situation and other external factors. In some families, money will be given as a “gelt” on each night, while others may opt to give one large gift on the first night and additional small gifts at regular intervals throughout the celebration.
Traditional Foods Served at Hanukkah
Many traditional foods are served during Hanukkah, although the specific types may vary from year to year. These can include potato pancakes (latkes) and stuffed foods, including pastries filled with fruit or cheese. Another common Hanukkah dish is a spiced noodle pudding called “kugel”.
Games and Activities at Hanukkah
The games that are played during Hanukkah can also be different from year to year. Some popular Hanukkah games include spinning a traditional dreidel game, and setting up a prize table to “build a bear” or “make your own car”. Other activities could include painting or decorating Hanukkah-themed items.
The variety of celebrations and traditions associated with the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah is part of what gives it meaning and purpose each year. Year after year, no two Hanukkah celebrations are exactly the same, from the date on the calendar to the gift-giving, foods, and games that are part of the festivities. While the core meaning of the holiday remains the same, the flexibility of the customs and traditions allow for personalized celebration from one year to the next.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.