Notable Hanukkah traditions

Metro Creative Services

Each year on the 25^th day of Kislev, which typically falls during the month of December, adherents of the Jewish faith celebrate the festival of Hanukkah. Although Hanukkah may not bear the same religious significance as other Jewish holidays, it is a well-known celebration.

Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Temple by the Maccabees in 165 BC after its desecration by the Syrians. Although there was not enough oil left to light the Temple for even one night, lamps remained illuminated for eight straight days and nights. Thus, Hanukkah is known as the Festival of Lights, which incorporates many unique traditions.

Lighting the menorah

Perhaps the most visible and important Hanukkah tradition involves the menorah. While traditional Jewish menorahs have seven branches, the Hanukkah menorah, known as the hanukkiah, actually has nine branches. There are eight candles and a ninth, which is called the shamash, is used to light the other eight. The menorah is lit each night after sundown.

Giving of gelt

Hanukkah gelt is money given as presents during the festival. It is typically offered to children and sometimes to teachers. Other gifts have now largely replaced the coins once offered, and gelt is sometimes chocolate.

Playing dreidel

Greek-Syrians outlawed Jewish studies at one point, so the Jews spun dreidels to pretend they were only playing games. Really they were engaged with their scripture. The tradition of spinning the dreidel endures as a Hanukkah tradition.

Foods fried in oil

The miracle of the burning oil extends to the foods enjoyed during Hanukkah. Many of the holiday foods are prepared in oil, including latkes (fried potatoes) and sufganiyot, which are fried, jelly-filled doughnuts. According to Town & Country magazine, millions of jelly doughnuts are consumed in Israel throughout Hanukkah.

Serving brisket

An authentic Hanukkah celebration often includes traditional dishes served in the spirit of celebration and gratitude. Brisket is frequently prepared for Hanukkah dinners. Brisket was adopted because it was affordable and delicious. Jewish brisket is braised, and served with carrots, potatoes and other vegetables. Brisket may be served alongside another Hanukkah dish, kugel, which is a casserole made from eggs and noodles.

Making cookies

Although Christmas cookies may be ubiquitous this time of year, cookies often are part of Hanukkah traditions, as well. Some cookies are cut to look like dreidels or stars. Those who want to incorporate the miracle of oil into their baking can seek recipes that use oil in place of butter in the cookie batters, something that can make them dairy-free and also vegan.

Hanukkah begins on Dec. 25, 2024, and will last through Jan. 2, 2025. It’s a festive time to embrace many time-honored traditions.