Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that dates back to 164 BCE, celebrating survival, faith, and resistance against oppression. It takes place over eight nights, beginning at sundown of the first night, and this year will begin Sunday, December 14 and end Monday, December 22. Observers light one candle of their home’s Hanukkah menorah per night, accompanied by blessings and additional readings, prayers, and songs. Families and loved ones will typically share festive meals, games, and, if desired, a gift exchange.
Check out our previous articles on the holiday for more information on its history and customs.
Over the course of the season, you may see several different spellings of Hanukkah in writing, holiday decorations, etc., such as Chanukah, Hanuka, or Hanukah. While Hanukkah is the most common spelling in the United States, none of the others are technically incorrect: the variations come from the transliteration of the Hebrew word חנוכה (“dedication,” as in the rededication of the temple in Jerusalem that inspired the holiday) into the Latin alphabet.
Hanukkah is not a federal holiday in the United States, so you can usually expect schools, businesses, transportation, and government buildings to be operating on normal hours. Observers may request time off from school or work in the evenings or to travel and spend the holiday with loved ones, so be prepared to make accommodations.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us anytime at info@gravityintpog.com. Stay safe and healthy, and Happy Hanukkah!
