Hanukkah Traditions 2023.

In 2023, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Thu. Dec.7th. through Sun. Dec. 15th.

Hanukkah has become a very public Jewish holiday all over the world. The fact that it is celebrated between late November and late December in the lunar Jewish calendar, and its proximity with the traditions of Christmas might have brought Hanukkah to the forefront of Jewish celebrations. The most important tradition of Hanukkah is the lighting of the “Menora” candles using a Shamash [helper] to light the other candles. On the first night, two lights are lit, on the second three, ending with nine on the last night, for a total of 44 candles. The box of Hanukkah candles has exactly 44 candles. 

There is an exchange of gifts, that are opened after dinner. Special Jewish dishes fried in oil,   Singing Songs from the psalms. Playing with the Dreidel is an important remembrance of keeping Jewish traditions alive even when it was forbidden to practice Judaism. When Persian soldiers pass by, Jewish people hid their prayer books and play with the dreidel.

Hanukkah Gelt”  chocolate “coins” are usually given to children to play with the dreidel, and “Fried Foods” (such as latkes (potato pancakes), blintzes, jelly doughnuts, and any fried foods are eaten to commemorate the importance of oil during the restoration of the temple.

Important items you would need to celebrate Hanukkah, for you or as gifts.

Box of Candles

Dreidel

Menorah

Activity Book

Gelt

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