As mothers, we all appreciate another reason to celebrate and bring light into the world. Hanukkah, also known as the Jewish “Festival of Lights,” falls on a different day each year, because it’s based on the Hebrew calendar, which differs from the Gregorian calendar.
No matter what day Hanukkah begins, however, we wish to spotlight the enchanting rituals, delectable cuisine, and gift ideas that you can indulge in for yourself or share with your Jewish friends.
So, What Exactly is Hanukkah?
Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration known as the “Festival of Lights,” during which Jewish families come together to illuminate candles on a special nine-candle candelabra called a menorah. This is accompanied by reciting prayers, reflecting on hope for the future, and savoring fried delicacies.
Fun Fact: The term “Hanukkah” translates to “dedication” in Hebrew. This holiday signifies the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and the triumph of the Jewish people over the Syrian-Greeks, who attempted to impose a different religion and way of life upon them.
What’s with the fried foods? When the leaders of the Jewish rebellion entered the Holy Temple, they discovered that it had been desecrated as a Greek temple. They found only enough oil to light a single candle on the temple’s menorah. However, miraculously, that small quantity of oil endured for eight consecutive nights. As a tribute to this miracle, we now celebrate by frying various foods. Perhaps you’ve heard of latkes? They resemble potato hash browns and are typically served with sour cream or applesauce. Nevertheless, children are particularly enamored with sufganiyot, also known as stuffed jelly doughnuts.
And what about those spinning tops, also called dreidels? Each side of a dreidel bears a Hebrew letter representing the words: “great,” “miracle,” “happened,” “there.” This references the significant miracle that occurred “there,” in Israel. Firstly, a small Jewish army overcame a formidable empire. Secondly, the miraculous oil not only lasted for one night but astonishingly burned for eight consecutive nights.
Let’s play! Using chocolate coins, often referred to as “gelt,” children partake in the dreidel game, where each letter corresponds to a specific action involving the communal chocolate pot — either adding to it or taking from it. Give the dreidel a spin and try your luck in this decision-making game. Adults are encouraged to join in on the fun as well!
From festive finds to spark joy in kids of all ages, to hostess treats to bring to a Hanukkah party, these 18 gifts are sure to spread love and light to all this holiday season.
For Little Kids
$16 from
Etsy/Creative Crayons
Bring smiles to the little ones’ faces during Hanukkah with delightful gifts designed just for them. From traditional dreidels and gelt to engaging storybooks and creative activities, these presents will make their holiday season extra special.
- Hanukkah Theme Crayons– Cre8iveCrayonz $16
- Hanukkah Coloring Placemat Instant Download – Modern Mitzvah $3.25
For Big Kids
$68 from
Peace. Love. Light.
Hanukkah is a time for fun and celebration, and these gifts for big kids will add excitement to the festivities. Whether they’re into games, crafts, or unique personalized items, you’ll find something that’s sure to light up their holiday spirit.
- Hanukkah Nail Decals – Midrash Manicures $14
- Hanukkah Paint Your Own Marzipan Dreidels – JEWishly $48
- Jewish Star Love Necklace – Peace Love Light Shop $68
For Your Home
$88.5 from
Etsy/MashaDashaDesigns
Transform your home into a Hanukkah wonderland with these thoughtful gifts. From elegant menorahs and candles to stylish decorations and wall art, you’ll find everything you need to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your holiday gatherings.
- SHALOM Wine Cork Wall Art – Masha and Dasha Designs $88.50
- Blue Menorahs TableRunner and Arielle Zorger Designs $64 and matching Blue Menorahs Glass Drip Tray – Arielle Zorger Designs – $65
- Hamsa Menorah – Jewish Joy $800
For the Hostess
$64.99 from
Gold Belly
Show your appreciation to the hostess who opens her home during Hanukkah with these delightful gifts. Thoughtful and tasteful, these presents will make her hosting duties even more enjoyable and add a touch of elegance to her celebrations.
- Happy Hanukkah Gift Box — Gold Belly $65
- Talia Dreidel Terrarium by Adara Rituals – ModernTribe $78
- Coasters– Jewish Joy $45
For Her
$48 from
Peace. Love. Light.
Celebrate the special women in your life this Hanukkah with gifts that pamper and delight. These presents are sure to make her feel cherished during the holiday season.
- Star Of David Votive Holders – Peace Love Light Shop $15
- Mezuzah Necklace – Yossikabbalahjewlry $71
- The House of Faith and Fashion: What my Wardrobe Taught Me About Gd by Tobi Rubinstein – $24.95
- Boundless Joy Hamsa & Evil Eye Mother of Pearl Earrings – $118
For Him
$135 from
Peace. Love. Light.
Make the men in your life feel loved and appreciated with these thoughtful Hanukkah gifts. Whether he’s a connoisseur of spirits, a stylish gentleman, or an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find the perfect gift to complement his interests and celebrate the season together.
- Hoppy Hanukkah Beer Box — $79
- Personalized Challah Board – Peace Love Light Shop $135
- Hanukkah Fair Isle Men’s Pajama Pants $38
