Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that lasts eight nights. It celebrates, by the lighting of candles on each day of the festival, the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean revolt against the Syrian-Greek army. It also commemorates a miracle that occurred during this time. To rededicate the temple, the menorah was lit using oil. There was only enough oil for one night, but miraculously, it stayed lit for eight nights. Families today celebrate Hanukkah by lighting their own menorahs for eight nights. They eat latkes and donuts, as cooking with oil is also a way to remember their ancestors.
This year, Hanukkah begins on December 18 and ends on December 26.
City Mom Collective’s sister sites have a wealth of resources and ideas for learning about and celebrating Hanukkah with your family. Even if you are not part of the Jewish faith, there are many ways you can learn about this holiday and come alongside your Jewish friends as they celebrate.
Hanukkah for Beginners
For those not in the Jewish faith, you might have a basic understanding of Hanukkah, but are unclear on the details of the holiday and the different ways people celebrate. Check out these primers written about the Festival of Lights, and share what you learn with your kids and friends!
https://bostonmoms.com/lifestyle/hanukkah-everything-ever-wanted-know/
Food
Food is at the center of most holidays, and Hanukkah is no exception. Here are some easy recipes to try out this year with your family.
Crafts
One of the best ways children learn about their and others’ cultural celebrations and holidays is with art. Here are some easy and fun crafts to do with your children to celebrate the Festival of Lights.
Christmas and Hanukkah Can Coexist
Christmas is undoubtedly the most well known and widely celebrated winter holiday in our country. However, there are many families who celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah, and teach their children to love and appreciate both.
Making My List, Checking it Twice: Why Doesn’t Santa Come to Our House?
Additional Resources to Celebrate Hanukkah
Looking for more ways to learn about and celebrate Hanukkah this year? Check out these resources from all around the web.
The Ultimate List of Children’s Books About Hanukkah– books and reading are always at the top of the list of ways to learn about anything. Check out this amazing list, broken down by age group and category.
15 Hanukkah Movies to Entertain the Whole Family – This time of year is perfect for family movie nights- why not add some of these films to the mix?
Hanukkah in a Box– This box is FULL of activities for the whole family, including crafts, recipes, a book, and an edible treat. It would make a wonderful gift for a Jewish friend, or something to do with your own family this holiday season.
