Four Tidbits for Hanukkah Celebrating

Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, isn't one of Judaism's high holy days but is still steeped in tradition and widely celebrated. The holiday commemorates the victory of the Maccabean Revolt in Jerusalem during the 2nd Century BCE and the re-dedication of the Second Temple after it was torn down. It lasts for eight days, symbolizing the time that a tiny volume of oil miraculously burned in the temple during its rebuilding and re-dedication. Eight days is a long time to celebrate, so here's a quick guide to four Hanukkah symbols and traditions to help you focus:

Menorahs - A powerful symbol of Hanukkah, a menorah (or hanukkiah) is an eight or nine-branched candelabra used to hold one candle for each night of Hanukkah (and one sham-ash candle used to light the others). The candle lighting is practiced as a reminder of the miracle that happened with the oil. This is why the lit menorah is traditionally placed in the window for the outside world to see, as opposed to within the house to light up the interior.

Latkes - Oily and delicious, these potato pancakes have become the centerpiece of Hanukkah cuisine. Plus, you can enjoy them with apple sauce or sour cream so who's complaining!? Oily foods including latkes once again symbolize the miracle of the oil. Other oily foods commonly consumed during Hanukkah include traditional jelly-filled doughnuts and a type of fritter. Latkes are a fun way to share the joy of Hanukkah, whether you're eating them or having your kids color in pictures of them!

Dreidels - These spinning tops (not necessarily made out of clay, as the popular song suggests) are the main prop for a fun betting game but also contain the letters that serve as a reminder that, "a great miracle happened there". Or in Israel, "a great miracle happened here". Images of dreidels are great for tableware, Hanukkah cards, or wrapping paper for a family with youngsters.

Singing and Dancing - You'll find that many Jewish holidays feature singing and dancing. Hanukkah music has become more widespread due partially to competition with the abundance of Christmas music but also the way a beautiful song can accompany a warm dinner and family time by the fire during winter months. Adam Sandler's "Hanukkah Song" aside, there's plenty of Hanukkah music to explore and package as gifts or use as background music for your own Hanukkah nights.

There you have it! Four bits of information to help you celebrate Hanukkah, send greetings to your Jewish friends, or simply understand a bit more about a religion that differs from your own. Happy Hanukkah everyone!