When is Hanukkah Celebrated?

Hanukkah, also spelled Chanukah, is celebrated for eight days and nights, beginning on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar. Because the Hebrew calendar is lunar-based, the dates vary each year on the Gregorian calendar, typically falling between late November and late December. In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on December 25th and ends at sundown on January 2nd, 2025.

The History of Hanukkah

Hanukkah, meaning "dedication" in Hebrew, commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century BCE. The story begins when the Jewish people, led by the Maccabees, successfully revolted against the Syrian-Greek oppressors who had desecrated the Holy Temple and outlawed Jewish religious practices.

After reclaiming the Temple, the Maccabees sought to light the Temple's menorah (candelabrum), but found only enough consecrated olive oil to keep the menorah's candles burning for a single day. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days and nights—enough time to prepare a fresh supply of oil. This miracle is at the heart of the Hanukkah celebration.

While Hanukkah is not mentioned in the Torah and is considered a minor Jewish holiday compared to Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur, it has become one of the most widely celebrated Jewish holidays, particularly in North America, where it often coincides with the Christmas season.

How People Celebrate Hanukkah

Lighting the Menorah: The most important Hanukkah tradition is lighting the menorah (also called a hanukkiah), a nine-branched candelabrum. Each night, one additional candle is lit using the Shamash (helper candle) until all eight candles are glowing on the final night. The menorah is traditionally placed in a window or doorway to publicize the miracle.

Traditional Foods: Fried foods are central to Hanukkah celebrations, symbolizing the miracle of the oil. Popular dishes include Latkes (potato pancakes) served with applesauce or sour cream, and Sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts). Many families also enjoy brisket, kugel, and other traditional Jewish dishes.

Playing Dreidel: The dreidel is a four-sided spinning top with Hebrew letters on each side: Nun, Gimel, Hei, and Shin, which stand for "Nes Gadol Hayah Sham" (A Great Miracle Happened There). Children and adults play dreidel games, often using chocolate coins called gelt as game pieces.

Gift Giving: While not originally part of the tradition, many families exchange gifts during Hanukkah, often giving one small gift each night of the eight-day celebration. Gelt (chocolate coins) are traditional gifts for children.

Songs and Prayers: Special prayers and blessings are recited when lighting the menorah, and traditional Hanukkah songs like "Ma'oz Tzur" (Rock of Ages) and "Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah" fill homes with joyful music.

Celebrating at Shalom & Grace

At Shalom & Grace, we honor both Jewish and Christian traditions, and Hanukkah holds a special place in our hearts. We invite you to explore our collection of beautiful Hanukkah items, from Menorahs and Dreidels to festive apparel that celebrates this Festival of Lights.

Whether you're celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, or both, we wish you a season filled with light, love, and miracles. Chag Sameach (Happy Holiday)!