- Eight nights
- Starts on 25 Kislev
- Lights, latkes and dreidels
Where it began
Hanukkah means dedication. In the 2nd century BCE the Maccabees led a revolt and won back the Temple in Jerusalem, then rededicated it.
The Talmud tells that only one small jar of pure oil was found, yet it kept the Temple lamp burning for eight days. This is why Hanukkah lasts eight nights and why foods fried in oil are eaten.
How it grew over time
2nd century BCE
The Maccabees rededicate the Temple in Jerusalem.
Early centuries CE
The Talmud records the story of the oil and the lighting of lamps.
Medieval period
Jewish communities in many lands light Hanukkah lamps at doors and windows.
Today
Families and cities light menorahs, and public lightings draw large crowds.
How it is celebrated in different places
Israel
Jelly doughnuts called sufganiyot fill bakeries, and menorahs shine in windows.
US and Canada
Public menorah lightings, songs and family parties mark each night.
Europe
Communities light candles together and share potato latkes.
Hanukkah moments
Hanukkah today
Each night a new candle is lit with a helper candle called the shamash. Families sing, play the spinning dreidel game, eat latkes and doughnuts, and in many homes children get small gifts or coins.
