The Jewish holiday Hanukkah, or Chanukah, is an eight-day festival commemorating a rebellion against the Greeks and the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. It is celebrated on the 25th of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar and typically starts in November or December. It is often called the “Festival of Lights.”
Traditions such as lighting candles on the menorah, eating fried foods, playing dreidel games, and spending time with family and friends are central to the holiday. Giving small gifts is also a common modern tradition, though it’s not essential. Read on to learn how to find the perfect gift for Hanukkah!
When is Hanukkah?
Hanukkah normally occurs between late November and early December. It differs from year to year, so make sure to check out the correct dates first!
If you’ve been invited to a Hanukkah celebration and aren’t quite sure of the gift-giving etiquette, here are a few tips to remember!
Keep it Thoughtful
Gift-giving is a relatively new tradition that sprung up because Hanukkah happens during the holiday season, so when bringing gifts, don’t go overboard. Books, jewelry, and food can be appropriate Hanukkah presents – but make sure any food is kosher.
Family gifts are always a good way to add a personal touch. You can create personalized puzzles with family portraits or pictures of the grandkids. The time spent putting it together will bring joy, and the finished puzzle can be framed and displayed as beautiful memories for years to come!
Board and card games are also fantastic “gifts of time and togetherness,” providing many evenings of fun beyond the initial Hanukkah gift.
Keep it Traditional
High-quality menorahs, dreidels, and candles are common traditional gifts. While it’s not specific to Hanukkah itself, a good mezuzah is always a meaningful gift, especially if it matches the recipient’s decor. It’s common to give gelt, or gold and silver “coins” made of foil-wrapped chocolate, along with other gifts, but don’t give it alone – it’s more like a traditional party favor than a gift.
Personal items such as Dead Sea salt scrubs, bath salts, shampoo, and soap or oil-based personal care items are thoughtful and give a nod to the stories and traditions of Hanukkah.
Keep it Yummy
Food is a huge part of most Jewish celebrations, and Hanukkah is no different. In Europe and North America, latkes (fried potato cakes), brisket, sufganiyot (round jelly donuts), and gelt are traditional foods served during the holiday.
You can’t go wrong with a gift of jelly donuts, challah bread, and cookies with blue and white decorations. You can even get a wide range of sweet treats like dreidel-shaped chocolates, chocolate coins for the kids, or gelt for grown-ups (gourmet chocolate anyone?) for Hanukkah gift-giving. Just make sure that everything you bring is kosher.
Keep it Practical
Many people choose to give practical gifts or novelties for Hanukkah. Clothing like a Hanukkah t-shirt makes a great fun gift. Socks, bibs, and baby bodysuits make small, yet useful presents as well.
Jewish-themed kitchen items like Hanukkah aprons or Hanukkah mugs combine utility with a whimsical spirit make a thoughtful gift. A cookbook of traditional Jewish foods is a gift that keeps on giving, and, if you’re lucky, the recipient might cook for you as a thank-you.
Hanukkah Don’ts for Savvy Shoppers
We’ve included several ideas and suggestions for appropriate Hanukkah gifts, but here are a few things to avoid when shopping:
- Although the stores seem to be overrun with items in red and green packaging, search out gifts in blue and white, the colors associated with Hanukkah.
- Don’t use Christmas wrap or cards. If you’re giving Hanukkah presents, ensure that they’re wrapped appropriately and come with a Hanukkah card, as well.
- Don’t give Christmas gifts on Hanukkah.
What food should I bring to a Hanukkah party?
Hanukkah doesn’t have any dietary restrictions, but make sure not to bring food items that aren’t kosher. Even if your hosts aren’t observant, it’s best to stick with kosher items out of politeness. You never know if the host might have invited observant guests!
Which dishes are considered kosher?
A wide variety of dishes are kosher, but it can be tricky to get it right. If you follow these guidelines, it’s easy to bring something everyone can eat.
- Don’t bring anything made with pork or shellfish. (Things derived from them aren’t kosher either, so don’t bring Jell-O unless it’s vegan.)
- Be careful with dairy and meat – it’s not kosher to eat both at the same meal. If you’re considering bringing something made with dairy, make sure nobody else is planning to bring a meat dish, and vice versa. To stay on the safe side, bring something pareve (neither milk nor meat). Vegetables, grain, fish, and eggs are all safe.
- Don’t bring anything you made at home. No dish is considered kosher unless it was made in a specially prepared kitchen. Stick to packaged food marked kosher like a deli tray or a fruit plate – most grocery stores have good options.
Hanukkah is a wonderful celebration with a rich tradition. Knowing the appropriate etiquette and gift-giving protocols can ensure your gift recipient feels appreciated and loved.
More Hanukkah Ideas & Inspiration
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in January 2019 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Nicole is our Content Strategist. She enjoys long walks to Taco Bell, rollerblading into the sunset, and eating Reese’s Cups for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Find her writing about iPhone cases, holiday card messaging and even music festival tips!
Excellent article!! Very well-written says this not religious but aware writing teacher???