What Is Hannukah and How Is It Celebrated?

Everything you need to know about one of the most joyous times on the Jewish calendar.

The beloved eight-day Jewish holiday Hanukkah kicked off with celebrations on Sunday.

For Jewish communities around the world, it comes as the first time in two years where gatherings and events can take place as pandemic restrictions lift.

If you’ve got friends who celebrate, are wanting to learn more about the holiday, or want to join in on the festivities, here’s everything you need to know about Hannukah.

What does Hannukah mean?

Put simply: Hanukkah means “dedication” in Hebrew. It’s also known as the Festival of Lights, or Channukah.

The holiday celebrates the victory of a group of Jewish rebels, The Maccabees, over a massive Greek-Syrian army to defend their heritage.

When they defeated the mighty army, they returned to their temple in Jerusalem, reclaiming it by lighting a seven-candle menorah.

Hannukah celebrates this moment where a miraculously long-lasting flame (or light) took place and it today acts as a symbol of hope and perseverance.

When is Hannukah 2021?

The dates change every year as Jewish holidays follow a lunar calendar.

This year, the Jewish Festival of Lights started on 28 November and wraps up on 6 December.

Image Credit: cottonbro via Pexels

How do people celebrate Hannukah?

Modern celebrations involve lighting a candle over the eight nights, prayers, playing dreidel (spinning top), and handing out gelt (gold foiled chocolate coins).

Like other holidays, food is also a big part of the celebration. Oil-fried foods are a big one and symbolise the long-lasting oil event we mentioned earlier.

Potato pancakes (latkes), noodle or potato casserole (kugel) and jelly doughnuts (sufganiyot) are often what you’ll see served up.

How do I wish my pals a happy Hannukah?

"Hanukkah sameach!", which means “Happy Hannukah” is the traditional greeting, or you could try "Chag urim sameach" which means "Happy Festival of Lights".

Whether you celebrate Hanukkah or not, there is still heaps to be learnt from the holiday.

If you want to join in the celebrations, Hanukkah events are held by local governments and community groups across the country.

Header Image: Luis Gonzalez via Unsplash