Celebrating Hanukkah

Although most Jewish families already know the details of celebrating this very special religious holiday, those outside the religion may not be as familiar with its traditions. And since the winter holidays should be a time for peace, love, and greater understanding, learning more about Hanukkah is a step in the right direction.

Hanukkah Celebration Traditions

Unlike Christmas, which always occurs on the 25th of December, Hanukkah begins at different times every year. The reason is that the date is determined by the Hebrew calendar. According to tradition, Hanukkah begins 25 days into the month of Kislev. That usually equates to a time during December, although it could begin as early as late November.

On Hanukkah Eve, families light the Shamash which is an extra candle in the center of the menorah (a 9-branched candelabrum). The Shamash is used to light the other candles starting with the first one to its left on each of the 8 nights of Hanukkah. This tradition symbolizes the miracle of one day’s worth of olive oil burning for eight days in the temple.

Most holidays are also celebrated with traditional food and Hanukkah is no different in that regard. Latkes (a fried potato pancake) are eaten during the season. To celebrate the burning oil, they are always fried in oil but can be served with sour cream, flavored jam, or even apple sauce. Fruit-filled doughnuts, other foods fried in oil, and other kosher meals can also be enjoyed during the holiday.

Hanukkah & Children

Children also have plenty of reasons to enjoy Hanukkah. For one, they can enjoy the dreidel game. The dreidel is a four-sided top used in a spinning game of chance. Children can sing “I Have a Little Dreidel” while playing with the top in an effort to win candy.

Plus, children receive a different gift for each day of the celebration. These eight gifts are usually small items but they are spread out over the entire period, instead of just given out on a single day.

Sending Hanukkah Cards

Just as you would send Christmas cards, you can also send Hanukkah cards to individuals who celebrate this Jewish holiday. Cards depicting the Spinning Dreidels, for example, are a perfect choice. You can also send notes on Jewish Stationery either to invite your loved ones to Hanukkah celebrations or just to let people know they are in your thoughts during the holiday.

When mailing your Hanukkah cards, don’t forget to purchase sheets of Hanukkah stamps from the United States Postal Service. The 2007 version of the stamps features a spinning dreidel. It’s the perfect complement to your holiday greeting cards.