Holiday guide

Hanukkah Guide

Hanukkah, also called Chanukah, is an eight-night Jewish festival. In 2026 it begins at sundown on December 4 and continues through December 12. The dates move in the Gregorian calendar because they follow the Hebrew calendar.

December 5–12, 2026Jewish communities worldwideJewish religious festivalReading time: 6 min

What is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is an eight-night Jewish festival commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Its practices center on memory, faith, light and family life.

Why it matters

Why Hanukkah matters

Hanukkah matters as a time to remember Jewish history and resilience while creating a present-day rhythm of family, prayer, food and shared light. Customs are meaningful but vary among households and communities.

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Today

How Hanukkah is celebrated today

Families light a hanukkiah, recite blessings, sing, eat foods cooked in oil, play dreidel and share gifts or gelt. Public menorah lightings and community events are also held in many places.

GatheringFamilies light a hanukkiah, recite blessings, sing, eat foods cooked in oil, play dreidel and share gifts or gelt. Public menorah lightings and community events are also held in many places.

Family customsHouseholds adapt the celebration to local and personal traditions.

Community lifePublic events and shared participation vary by region.

Food and symbolsMeals, colors and objects reflect local customs and family meaning.

Public eventsParades, worship, performances or markets may shape public observance.

Personal meaningPeople choose religious, cultural, family or quieter ways to take part.

Key facts

Hanukkah facts

Hanukkah lasts eight nights.
The festival follows the Hebrew calendar.
A hanukkiah is lit progressively across the eight nights.
Foods cooked in oil recall the festival’s oil-associated story.
Hanukkah is distinct from Christmas despite often occurring in the same season.

Questions

Hanukkah FAQ

When is Hanukkah?

In 2026, Hanukkah begins at sundown on December 4 and ends after nightfall on December 12.

How long does Hanukkah last?

Hanukkah lasts eight nights.

What do people do during Hanukkah?

Lighting the hanukkiah, blessings, songs, foods cooked in oil, dreidel and family gatherings are common.

What is the difference between a hanukkiah and a menorah?

A hanukkiah used for Hanukkah has eight festival lights plus a shamash. The seven-branched menorah was the lamp associated with the ancient Temple.

Is Hanukkah the Jewish Christmas?

No. Hanukkah is a distinct Jewish festival with its own Hebrew calendar date, history, prayers and lighting ritual.

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