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Chanukah

חנוכה
Winter — 25 Kislev to 2 Tevet

Chag Urim Sameach!

What is Chanukah?

Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, celebrates the victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian-Greek empire and the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

When the Maccabees reclaimed the Temple, they found only one small jar of pure olive oil — enough for one day. Miraculously, it burned for eight days, giving time to prepare new oil.

For eight nights, we light the menorah (chanukiah), adding one candle each night. The holiday celebrates religious freedom, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness.

Traditions & Customs

1
Lighting the menorah — one additional candle each of the eight nights
2
Spinning the dreidel (a four-sided top)
3
Eating foods fried in oil: latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly donuts)
4
Giving Chanukah gelt (coins) and gifts
5
Singing Chanukah songs like "Maoz Tzur"
6
Public menorah lightings

Learn More About Chanukah

Celebrate Chanukah with L'Chaim Center

Join our community for Chanukah programs, events, and celebrations on Chicago's North Shore.