Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is recognized as Judaism’s “festival of lights.” Over the course of eight consecutive nights, families and friends gather to light candles on the menorah, a multibranched candelabra, adding one candle each evening.
The term Hanukkah translates to “dedication” in Hebrew, commemorating the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd century BC. This significant event followed the successful liberation of the temple by a group of Jewish fighters from foreign occupation.
During this time, a limited quantity of ritually pure oil was discovered within the temple, and miraculously, it lasted for eight days when used to light the menorah. This tradition is honored through the nightly candle lighting and the preparation of oil-based foods, such as potato pancakes known as latkes.
Looking ahead, Hanukkah in 2024 will be celebrated from December 25 through January 2, marking a rare occurrence where the holiday coincides with Christmas Day, which has only happened five times since 1900.
The timing of Hanukkah’s observance this year is influenced by the lunar calendar used in Judaism, which does not align with the Gregorian calendar that establishes Christmas on December 25. Hanukkah consistently begins on the 25th of Kislev, a date that falls between late November and late December.
The ways in which Hanukkah is observed can vary among different Jewish denominations — from Reform to Conservative to Orthodox — but the overall theme remains consistent: bringing light into darkness and demonstrating how even small efforts can create meaningful change. This message resonates strongly within the ceremony, where participants light the menorah by adding one candle each night while reciting blessings. The candles are arranged from right to left on the menorah, but are lit from left to right, always starting with the newest addition. Special menorahs have eight branches, along with a ninth holder for the shamash candle, which is used to light the others.
While traditional practices involve using candles with real flames, electric menorahs are sometimes utilized in public settings to ensure safety.
Celebrations of Hanukkah include prominently displaying menorahs in households, often placed in visible locations like windows or doorways to symbolize the dissemination of God’s light to all nations. This practice has expanded to the lighting of menorahs in public spaces, including city streets and parks, becoming a more visible celebration in various countries.
In addition to the lighting ceremonies, acts of charity and social responsibility form a core part of the celebration for many, embodying the belief that the Jewish community is called to improve the world for everyone.
This festive season not only serves to commemorate historical events, but also inspires reflections on resilience, community, and the collective effort toward creating a brighter future for all. As families gather to celebrate, they reinforce the values of hope, faith, and compassion, making Hanukkah a symbol of light amid darkness for generations to come.