Looking for fun and meaningful ways to celebrate Hanukkah / Chanukah with your family this year? Known around the world as the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah is a time to honor cherished traditions, create joyful memories, and light up the season with your loved ones.
The story of Hanukkah - in short: Over 2,000 years ago a group of Jewish rebels known as the Maccabees — rebelled against their oppressors and triumphed against all odds. After their victory over the larger Syrian - Greek army, they rededicated their temple, but discovered only enough oil to keep the menorah lit for only one night. Amazingly, that oil lasted eight nights - a miracle that inspired the tradition of lighting the menorah each night during Hanukkah. This miracle is also why fried foods, like latkes and sufganiyot, play a delicious role in Hanukkah celebrations around the world. Want to dive deeper into the story of Chanukah? Learn more here.
Here are 8 family-fun ideas to celebrate the 8-days of Hanukkah:
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1. Play dreidel
Dreidel is a simple, but fun game that even the youngest kids in the family can enjoy! All you need is a dreidel - a special 4-sided top and a some small items - popular choices are chocolate coins, coins like pennies, beans, or candy, then distribute equally amongst the players. Learn to play!
2. Make your own Hanukkah candles
This craft is so easy and fun for all ages — simply buy a special candle-making kit, which means there is no muss, no fuss and — best of all — no big clean up. You can find kits at craft stores or online.
3. Build a Hanukkah-inspired craft
The Jewish Museum in New York City highlights four artist-inspired Hanukkah craft projects for families and kids, including creating a colorful clay menorah, and a sculptural Hanukkah lamp.
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4. Make some latkes
Latkes are as much a tradition during Hanukkah as the lighting of the candles! What's not to love about this crisp, fried potato pancake topped with applesauce and sour cream? Switch it up this year with this sweet potato latke recipe.
5. Read
If you don't have any Hanukkah books at home, head to your local library or book store. Here is a list of six great Hanukkah books for kids!
6. Make jelly donuts
Like latkes, jelly donuts are a traditional Hanukkah food because they are fried in oil, symbolizing how the oil lasted 8-days. This simple Hanukkah Jelly Doughnuts "Sufganiyot" recipe from King Arthur Baking is delicious, and easy enough that kids can help make this special Hanukkah treat.
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7. Give
Many Jewish families exchange or give gifts during Hanukkah, often one small gift each night like gelt / chocolate coins, books or games.
Here are a few gift ideas, some you can easily make - 10+ Easy to Make Budget Friendly Holiday Gifts: Perfect for Anyone.
8. Make a Tzedakah box
Another Hanukkah tradition is collecting money into a box, called a tzedakah box to share with someone or an organization in need. Kids can create and decorate their own box to collect coins to donate. A tzedakah box can be a simple but effective way to show kids that every little bit matters and how much giving back matters.
Happy Hanukkah!
Family Fun Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah / Chanukah
Hanukkah Events for your Family in Conejo Valley - Malibu - Calabasas
