During the holiday season, not only is it a time to look forward to what you celebrate. But a time to look into other religious traditions. And on our way to Christmas, there is Hanukkah.

Many Jewish people look at Hanukkah as one of their most exciting traditions. Originating around 164 BCE, Hanukkah is one of the world’s oldest religious pastimes.

Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration that starts every year on the 25th day of Kislev, which is the ninth month of the Jewish calendar. This year it goes from the 7th to the 15th of December.

The representation of those 8 days is done by a “Menorah.” A Menorah is a candle holder that holds 9 candles. Each candle represents one night of Hanukkah and the extra is to light the other candles.

While a candle is lit each of those days, Jewish people exchange money or gifts. Depending on the household, gifts can range from things like games, puzzles, and books. And some households set aside money from a night to donate to a charity. 

Prayer is considered by some people to be the most important and most traditional part of the festivities in itself. 

There are three blessings during Hanukkah. The First and Second Blessing are said on every night of Hanukkah. And the Third Blessing is only said on the first night. Each blessing consists of similar tongues, mostly consisting of praising their God. 

A game that will be played at a majority of households is “Dreidel.” The main piece of the game is also called a dreidel, it is a four-sided piece with a handle. Players spin it on the table, on each side of the dreidel there is instructions on whether to add or remove gold-wrapped chocolate from the pot.

Some traditional Hanukkah food consists of Latkes which are fried potato pancakes. Kugel is a sweet casserole. Brisket which is just roast beef. Challah, which is bread. And Roasted Chicken.

Hanukkah is a festive celebration and learning about Jewish culture was enjoyable. I suggest looking into other religious celebrations if this interests you.