Hanukkah, Dec 7th-15th, also spelled Chanukah, is an 8-day Jewish festival commemorating the remarkable victory of the Maccabees over the Greeks in 139 BCE. The festival centers on the lighting of menorahs for eight consecutive nights, symbolizing the miraculous duration of the Temple’s oil. Families gather to light the menorah, play dreidel games, and share the message of hope.
Community menorah lightings in public squares convey the triumph of light over darkness and freedom to worship. Delectable traditions include sufganiyot (doughnuts) and latkes (potato pancakes), honoring the significance of oil. Hanukkah embodies resilience and faith, celebrating Jewish heritage with joy and unity.