What is Hanukkah?

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Hanukkah is the Jewish Festival of Lights. The word 'Hanukkah' means 'Dedication' in Hebrew. It celebrates a miracle that happened in Jerusalem over 2,000 years ago.

When is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah (or Chanukah in Hebrew) is celebrated in November or December every year. It lasts for eight days.

In 2025 Hanukkah begins on the evening of Sunday 14 December.

What is the story of Hanukkah?

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A long time ago a Greek Emperor called Antiochus banned the Jews from worshiping God. He put a big statue of himself in their temple and ordered them to bow before it.
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However, the Jews refused to obey him because the Ten Commandments forbid them to worship anyone other than God.
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A small group of Jews called the Maccabees fought back against the Emperor's army.
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After three years, they won the war and recaptured Jerusalem from the Greeks
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When the Jews went back to their temple, they saw that it had nearly been destroyed.
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They cleaned and repaired the temple. When they were finished, they rededicated it to God. They did this by lighting the lamp, which was a symbol of God's presence.
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They only had one small jar of oil which was only enough for one day.
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However, miraculously the lamp stayed alight for eight days! That is why Jews light a candle every day of Hanukkah.

How is Hanukkah celebrated?

Activity: Thinking points

An illustration of a child with a thought bubble.

Have a look at the thinking points below. You can discuss them with somebody else if you want to. There are no right or wrong answers so remember to be respectful if somebody else has a different thought or opinion.

What do you think is the most important lesson from the story of Hanukkah?
What does the story of Hanukkah tell us about the importance of resilience?
Why might Hanukkah be an important time for families to come together?
How is Hanukkah similar or different to other festivals or holidays you celebrate?