When Is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah in 2026: Friday, 4 December 2026

What is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. It commemorates the Jewish triumph against religious persecution and the miracle of a small amount of sacred oil burning for eight days. Hanukkah is celebrated by lighting the menorah (a nine-branched candelabra) with one additional candle lit each evening, playing games, exchanging gifts, and sharing meals.

Traditions

• •Lighting the menorah (hanukiah) each evening with blessings and songs
• •Spinning the dreidel (traditional spinning top)
• •Playing games with chocolate coins (gelt)
• •Eating foods fried in oil, like latkes (potato pancakes) and jelly doughnuts
• •Exchanging gifts over the eight days
• •Singing Hanukkah songs and carols
• •Displaying menorahs in windows
• •Gathering with family and friends for festive meals

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