As the autumn leaves give way to the crisp air of winter, we find ourselves approaching a joyous time of year: Hanukkah 2024. This eight-day Jewish festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, holds a special place in the hearts of Jewish people worldwide.

Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miraculous burning of oil that lasted for eight days. The story goes that during the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire, the Jewish people reclaimed the Temple but found only a small cruse of undefiled oil, enough to light the menorah for one day. Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, giving them time to prepare a new supply. This event gave rise to the tradition of lighting the hanukkiah, a nine-branched menorah, each night of Hanukkah.

In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th. During this time, homes and synagogues will be adorned with festive lights, and families and friends will gather to celebrate with traditional foods and songs.

First Day Of Hanukkah 2024

Hanukkah 2024 begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th.

• Eight-day Jewish festival
• Commemorates rededication of Second Temple
• Also known as Festival of Lights
• Lighting of hanukkiah, nine-branched menorah
• Traditional foods, songs, and gatherings
• Gifts and games for children
• Dreidels, spinning tops with Hebrew letters
• Latkes, potato pancakes
• Gelt, chocolate coins
• Worldwide celebration of Jewish heritage

Hanukkah is a joyous time for Jewish families and communities around the world. It is a reminder of the importance of faith, resilience, and the enduring power of light over darkness.

Eight-day Jewish festival

Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish festival that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miraculous burning of oil that lasted for eight days. The story goes that during the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire, the Jewish people reclaimed the Temple but found only a small cruse of undefiled oil, enough to light the menorah for one day. Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, giving them time to prepare a new supply. This event gave rise to the tradition of lighting the hanukkiah, a nine-branched menorah, each night of Hanukkah.

Hanukkah is also known as the Festival of Lights, as it is customary to display a menorah with lit candles in each window of the home. This is done to publicize the Hanukkah miracle and to remind passersby of the Jewish people’s victory over oppression.

During Hanukkah, Jewish families and communities gather together to celebrate with traditional foods, songs, and games. Some popular Hanukkah foods include latkes (potato pancakes), sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), and gelt (chocolate coins). Children often play dreidels, spinning tops with Hebrew letters, and receive gifts on each night of Hanukkah.

Hanukkah is a joyous time for Jewish people around the world. It is a reminder of the importance of faith, resilience, and the enduring power of light over darkness.

In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th.

Commemorates rededication of Second Temple

The rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem is the central event that Hanukkah commemorates.

• Background:

  In the 2nd century BCE, the Seleucid Empire ruled over Judea. The Seleucids were Hellenistic Greeks who tried to force their culture and religion on the Jewish people. This led to a revolt by the Maccabees, a group of Jewish rebels led by Judah Maccabee.

• Victory of the Maccabees:

  After three years of fighting, the Maccabees defeated the Seleucids and reclaimed the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This victory is known as the Hanukkah miracle.

• Rededication of the Temple:

  When the Maccabees entered the Temple, they found it desecrated and looted. They cleansed the Temple and rededicated it to God.

• The Miracle of the Oil:

  According to tradition, the Maccabees found only a small cruse of undefiled oil, enough to light the menorah for one day. Miraculously, the oil burned for eight days, giving them time to prepare a new supply. This event gave rise to the tradition of lighting the hanukkiah, a nine-branched menorah, each night of Hanukkah.

Hanukkah is a joyous festival that celebrates the victory of the Maccabees, the rededication of the Second Temple, and the enduring power of faith and resilience.

Also known as Festival of Lights

Hanukkah is also known as the Festival of Lights because of the tradition of lighting the hanukkiah, a nine-branched menorah, each night of the holiday.

• The Hanukkiah:

  The hanukkiah is a special menorah that has nine branches. Eight of the branches are for the eight nights of Hanukkah, and the ninth branch is called the shamash, which means “helper.” The shamash is used to light the other eight candles.

• Lighting the Hanukkiah:

  On each night of Hanukkah, one candle is lit on the hanukkiah. On the first night, one candle is lit. On the second night, two candles are lit, and so on. By the eighth night, all eight candles are lit.

• Placement of the Hanukkiah:

  The hanukkiah is typically placed in a window or doorway so that it can be seen by passersby. This is done to publicize the Hanukkah miracle and to remind people of the Jewish people’s victory over oppression.

• Blessings and Songs:

  When lighting the hanukkiah, special blessings and songs are recited. These blessings and songs express gratitude to God for the miracles of Hanukkah and for the protection of the Jewish people.

The Festival of Lights is a joyous time for Jewish people around the world. It is a reminder of the importance of faith, resilience, and the enduring power of light over darkness.

Lighting of hanukkiah, nine-branched menorah

The lighting of the hanukkiah, a nine-branched menorah, is one of the central rituals of Hanukkah.

The hanukkiah is placed in a prominent location in the home, such as a window or doorway, so that it can be seen by passersby. This is done to publicize the Hanukkah miracle and to remind people of the Jewish people’s victory over oppression.

On each night of Hanukkah, one candle is lit on the hanukkiah. On the first night, one candle is lit. On the second night, two candles are lit, and so on. By the eighth night, all eight candles are lit.

The shamash, or “helper” candle, is used to light the other eight candles. The shamash is placed in the center of the hanukkiah and is lit first. Then, the other candles are lit from left to right.

As the candles are lit, special blessings and songs are recited. These blessings and songs express gratitude to God for the miracles of Hanukkah and for the protection of the Jewish people.

The lighting of the hanukkiah is a joyful and meaningful ritual that brings family and friends together. It is a reminder of the importance of faith, resilience, and the enduring power of light over darkness.

In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th.

Traditional foods, songs, and gatherings

Hanukkah is a time for family and friends to gather together and celebrate. Traditional foods, songs, and games are all part of the Hanukkah experience.

Traditional Hanukkah Foods:

• Latkes: Potato pancakes are a classic Hanukkah food. They are made with grated potatoes, onions, and eggs, and are fried until golden brown. Latkes are often served with applesauce and sour cream.
• Sufganiyot: Jelly doughnuts are another popular Hanukkah treat. They are filled with jelly or jam and are often topped with powdered sugar.
• Gelt: Chocolate coins are given to children during Hanukkah. They are a symbol of the coins that were given to the Maccabees after their victory.

Traditional Hanukkah Songs:

• “Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah”: This is a classic Hanukkah song that is sung by children and adults alike. It tells the story of the Hanukkah miracle.
• “Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel”: This song is about a dreidel, a four-sided spinning top that is played with during Hanukkah. The song describes how to play the game and what the different sides of the dreidel mean.
• “Maoz Tzur”: This is a traditional Hebrew hymn that is sung during Hanukkah. It praises God for the miracles of Hanukkah and for the protection of the Jewish people.

Traditional Hanukkah Gatherings:

• Family Gatherings: Hanukkah is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. Families often gather for meals, games, and storytelling.
• Community Events: Many Jewish communities host Hanukkah events, such as menorah lightings, concerts, and parties. These events are a great way to celebrate Hanukkah with the wider community.
• Synagogue Services: Jewish people also celebrate Hanukkah through synagogue services. These services include special prayers and readings from the Torah.

Hanukkah is a joyous festival that is celebrated by Jewish people around the world. It is a time for family, friends, food, music, and light.

Gifts and games for children

Hanukkah is a time for children to receive gifts and play games.

Traditional Hanukkah Gifts:

• Gelt: Chocolate coins are a traditional Hanukkah gift for children. They are a symbol of the coins that were given to the Maccabees after their victory.
• Toys: Children also receive toys as Hanukkah gifts. Popular Hanukkah toys include dreidels, menorahs, and Jewish-themed books and games.
• Clothes: New clothes are also a common Hanukkah gift for children.

Traditional Hanukkah Games:

• Dreidel: Dreidel is a four-sided spinning top that is played with during Hanukkah. The sides of the dreidel are marked with Hebrew letters that stand for “nes gadol haya sham,” which means “a great miracle happened there.” Players take turns spinning the dreidel and winning or losing gelt based on the letter that lands face up.
• Menorah Match: This game is similar to the card game “War.” Players take turns flipping over cards from their deck. The player with the higher card wins the pot. The game ends when one player has won all of the cards.
• Hanukkah Bingo: This game is played like regular bingo, but with Hanukkah-themed words and images.

Hanukkah is a time for children to enjoy themselves and celebrate the holiday. Gifts and games are a big part of the Hanukkah experience for children.

In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th.

Dreidels, spinning tops with Hebrew letters

Dreidels are four-sided spinning tops that are played with during Hanukkah. They are typically made of wood or plastic and have Hebrew letters printed on each side. The letters stand for the Hebrew words “nes gadol haya sham,” which means “a great miracle happened there.”

Dreidels are used to play a game of chance. Players take turns spinning the dreidel and winning or losing gelt (chocolate coins) based on the letter that lands face up.

The four Hebrew letters on a dreidel are:

• Nun (נ): This letter stands for “nes,” which means “miracle.”
• Gimel (ג): This letter stands for “gadol,” which means “great.”
• Hey (ה): This letter stands for “haya,” which means “happened.”
• Shin (ש): This letter stands for “sham,” which means “there.”

When a player spins the dreidel, they can land on one of four outcomes:

• Nun (נ): If the dreidel lands on nun, the player wins nothing.
• Gimel (ג): If the dreidel lands on gimel, the player wins the entire pot.
• Hey (ה): If the dreidel lands on hey, the player wins half of the pot.
• Shin (ש): If the dreidel lands on shin, the player must add a gelt to the pot.

Dreidel is a fun and easy game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a popular Hanukkah tradition that helps to bring family and friends together.

In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th.

Latkes, potato pancakes

Latkes are potato pancakes that are a traditional Hanukkah food. They are made with grated potatoes, onions, and eggs, and are fried until golden brown. Latkes are often served with applesauce and sour cream.

Latkes are a delicious and easy-to-make Hanukkah treat. They are a popular food for both children and adults.

Here is a recipe for latkes:

Ingredients:
4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
1 large onion, grated
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup matzo meal
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, onions, eggs, matzo meal, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet.
3. Drop the potato mixture by spoonfuls into the hot oil. Flatten the latkes with a spatula.
4. Fry the latkes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain the latkes on paper towels.
6. Serve the latkes hot with applesauce and sour cream.

Latkes are a delicious and festive way to celebrate Hanukkah. They are a reminder of the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days.

In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th.

Gelt, chocolate coins

Gelt is the Yiddish word for “money.” It is also the name for the chocolate coins that are given to children during Hanukkah. Gelt is a symbol of the coins that were given to the Maccabees after their victory.

Gelt is a popular Hanukkah treat for children of all ages. It is also used to play games, such as dreidel.

There are many different ways to give gelt to children during Hanukkah. Some parents give their children gelt each night of Hanukkah. Others give their children gelt all at once, on the last night of Hanukkah. Some parents even hide the gelt around the house and have their children search for it.

No matter how it is given, gelt is a fun and festive way to celebrate Hanukkah. It is a reminder of the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days.

Here are some fun facts about gelt:

• The first gelt coins were made in the 16th century.
• Gelt is made from a variety of materials, including chocolate, plastic, and metal.
• Gelt coins often have Hebrew letters or symbols printed on them.
• Gelt is a popular gift for children on Hanukkah because it is both fun and delicious.
• Gelt is also used to play games, such as dreidel.

In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th.

Worldwide celebration of Jewish heritage

Hanukkah is a festival that celebrates Jewish heritage and culture. It is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate the miracles of the Hanukkah story.

Hanukkah is celebrated all over the world by Jewish people of all ages. In Israel, Hanukkah is a national holiday. In other countries, Hanukkah is celebrated in synagogues, community centers, and homes.

There are many different ways to celebrate Hanukkah. Some popular Hanukkah traditions include:

• Lighting the menorah: The menorah is a nine-branched candelabrum that is lit each night of Hanukkah. The shamash, or helper candle, is used to light the other eight candles.
• Saying blessings: Special blessings are recited when lighting the menorah and eating traditional Hanukkah foods.
• Eating traditional Hanukkah foods: Some popular Hanukkah foods include latkes (potato pancakes), sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), and gelt (chocolate coins).
• Playing Hanukkah games: Some popular Hanukkah games include dreidel and Hanukkah bingo.
• Giving gifts: Children often receive gifts on Hanukkah, such as toys, clothes, and gelt.

Hanukkah is a joyous time for Jewish people around the world. It is a time to celebrate Jewish heritage and culture, and to remember the miracles of the Hanukkah story.

In 2024, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Hanukkah 2024:

Question 1: When is Hanukkah 2024?

Answer: Hanukkah 2024 begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th.

Question 2: What is the significance of Hanukkah?

Answer: Hanukkah commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Seleucid Empire and the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

Question 3: How do people celebrate Hanukkah?

Answer: Hanukkah is celebrated by lighting the menorah, saying blessings, eating traditional Hanukkah foods, playing Hanukkah games, and giving gifts.

Question 4: What are some popular Hanukkah foods?

Answer: Some popular Hanukkah foods include latkes (potato pancakes), sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), and gelt (chocolate coins).

Question 5: What are some popular Hanukkah games?

Answer: Some popular Hanukkah games include dreidel and Hanukkah bingo.

Question 6: What is the significance of the menorah?

Answer: The menorah is a nine-branched candelabrum that is lit each night of Hanukkah. The shamash, or helper candle, is used to light the other eight candles.

Question 7: What is the significance of gelt?

Answer: Gelt is the Yiddish word for “money.” It is also the name for the chocolate coins that are given to children during Hanukkah. Gelt is a symbol of the coins that were given to the Maccabees after their victory.

Closing Paragraph for FAQ:

Hanukkah is a joyous time for Jewish people around the world. It is a time to celebrate Jewish heritage and culture, and to remember the miracles of the Hanukkah story.

In addition to the FAQ, here are some tips for celebrating Hanukkah 2024:

Tips

Here are some tips for celebrating Hanukkah 2024:

Tip 1: Learn about the history of Hanukkah.

There are many resources available online and in libraries that can teach you about the history of Hanukkah and its traditions. This will help you to appreciate the holiday more deeply.

Tip 2: Decorate your home for Hanukkah.

There are many ways to decorate your home for Hanukkah, such as hanging menorahs, dreidels, and Hanukkah banners. You can also put up a Hanukkah tree or light a Hanukkah bush.

Tip 3: Make traditional Hanukkah foods.

There are many delicious traditional Hanukkah foods that you can make at home, such as latkes, sufganiyot, and gelt. You can find recipes for these foods online or in cookbooks.

Tip 4: Play Hanukkah games.

There are many fun Hanukkah games that you can play with your family and friends, such as dreidel and Hanukkah bingo. These games are a great way to celebrate the holiday and have some fun.

Closing Paragraph for Tips:

Hanukkah is a joyous time for Jewish people around the world. It is a time to celebrate Jewish heritage and culture, and to remember the miracles of the Hanukkah story. By following these tips, you can make Hanukkah 2024 a special and memorable holiday.

Now that you have some tips for celebrating Hanukkah 2024, you can start planning your festivities. Be sure to share these tips with your family and friends so that they can also enjoy the holiday.

Conclusion

Hanukkah 2024 is a special time for Jewish people around the world. It is a time to celebrate Jewish heritage and culture, and to remember the miracles of the Hanukkah story.

This year, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 22nd and concludes at nightfall on Monday, December 30th. During this time, Jewish people will light the menorah, say blessings, eat traditional Hanukkah foods, play Hanukkah games, and give gifts.

Hanukkah is a joyous time for Jewish people of all ages. It is a time to come together with family and friends and celebrate the miracles of the Hanukkah story.

As we celebrate Hanukkah 2024, let us remember the importance of faith, resilience, and the enduring power of light over darkness. May this holiday bring peace, joy, and happiness to all.

Chag Hanukkah Sameach!

(Happy Hanukkah!)