Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. The holiday lasts for eight nights and is commonly celebrated with the lighting of the Menorah, eating fried foods, and playing games.
There are many ways that people celebrate Hanukkah, so whether this is your first rodeo, or you are familiar with these festivities, this piece will offer a fun guide on how to celebrate Hanukkah.
The History of Hanukkah
Hanukkah is a holiday that essentially celebrates the Jewish people’s fight for religious freedom, and is also known as the Festival of Lights and the Feast of Dedication. Hanukkah lasts for eight days, and each day a new candle is lit on the nine-branched Menorah. The Menorah is a symbol of hope and light, and it is said to represent the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days when the Jews were fighting for their liberty.
On Hanukkah, families come together to celebrate their heritage and enjoy time with loved ones. There are many traditional foods that are eaten during the holiday, such as latkes (potato pancakes), sufganiyot (jelly donuts), and fried chicken. Hanukkah is a special time to remember the past and celebrate the present, and it is also time for the Jewish community to come together and cherish their freedom.
Not to forget that gifts are exchanged and there are plenty of games too!
Plan Your Activities
To start planning your celebrations, decide on which traditions you want to take part in and what new ones you might like to try. Perhaps you might want to make latkes for the first time or attend a Menorah lighting ceremony. Whatever you do, make sure it’s something you think you will enjoy! And don’t forget to get Hanukkah decorations too!
If you have some great recipes or games that you love to play, be sure to share them with friends and family, think about what gifts you might like to give, and discuss the importance of this special time of year with those who are celebrating with you.
What Foods to Eat during Hanukkah
The holiday of Hanukkah is a time for family, friends, and of course, food! While there are many traditional Hanukkah dishes, there are no set rules about what you have to eat during the holiday. So, if you’re looking for some inspiration on what to serve during Hanukkah, here are some ideas:
- Potato Latkes: These delicious potato pancakes are a Hanukkah staple. They can be served plain or topped with sour cream, applesauce, or smoked salmon.
- Sufganiyot: These fried jelly donuts are a popular Hanukkah treat in Israel. They can be filled with any type of jelly, and are often dusted with powdered sugar.
- Chicken Soup with Matzo Balls: This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly Hanukkah night. The matzo balls add a unique twist to the traditional chicken soup recipe.
Spinach and Feta Borekas: These savory pastries are made with phyllo dough and filled with spinach and feta cheese. They make a great appetizer or main dish.
