Often called the Festival of Lights, this Jewish holiday is celebrated over the course of eight days in the winter. It recognizes the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century BC, during which a small group of Jews defeated the Greeks to reclaim the site. Whether you’re celebrating your first festival this year or just wish to learn more about its importance, you’ll find everything you need to know here.

Interesting Hanukkah Facts

As the Jews entered the Holy Temple, they attempted to light the menorah, or the gold light stand featuring seven branches. Using the only untainted oil they could find, they lit the candles believing they would only stay aglow for a day. But the flames continued to burn for eight nights—a miraculous event that is said to be the inspiration for the eight-day celebration observed annually.

Today, the menorah features nine branches in contrast to the seven that were lit by the Kohanim, or priests, in the Holy Temple. This type of menorah is only used during Hanukkah—eight of its branches represent the miracle of eight days, while the final branch holds a candle that is used to light the rest. That lone candle is called the shamash, or attendant, and it may be situated higher than the other branches.

Beloved Hanukkah Traditions

Hanukkah is a time to cherish family and celebrate the triumph of good over evil and darkness over light. It’s customary to commemorate the occasion with a few traditions that reflect peace and generosity.

Lighting the Menorah: Traditionally, the menorah is lit by everyone in the house and situated in a window or doorway. In keeping with the festival’s history, using olive oil to light the candles is encouraged.

Enjoy Traditional Foods – Because the miracle of Hanukkah occurred with oil, it is traditional to consume fried foods during the holiday. Popular dishes include latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts). Other favorites include challah bread, rugelach, brisket, and gefilte fish.

Playing Dreidel – Families all over the world play dreidel. It’s customary to spin the four-sided top, which spins until it lands on one of four letters from the Hebrew alphabet: hei, or half; gimel, or all; shin, or put in; and nun, or nothing. Whichever letter the player lands on determines their next move.

Give Hanukkah Gelt – Although gifts are often exchanged during modern-day celebrations, the actual Jewish customs centered on giving Hanukkah gelt, or money. Contemporary coins are made with chocolate and wrapped in silver or gold foil. Hint: kids love it!

How to Celebrate Hanukkah

There are many ways to celebrate Hanukkah. You might present the recipient with a card and a small token, like a pair of handsome cuff links or a colorful coffee mug. Think about how to welcome a new arrival to the family, too. A sweet keepsake ornament personalized with the little one’s name is a lovely surprise, as is a cute playsuit. Families may choose to exchange gifts on each of the eight days.

Spending time together as a family is another way to honor the spirit of the festival. You might prepare traditional foods with one another or enjoy themed nights for each day of Hanukkah. You might devote a night to game playing or movie watching, and another to volunteering or providing service of some kind to someone in need. Carrying forward traditions of the past and making new memories is a wonderful way to make the holiday special and unique.