Hanukkah
Official nameHebrew: חֲנֻכָּה or חֲנוּכָּה
English translation: "Establishing" or "Dedication" (of the Temple in Jerusalem)
Observed byJews
TypeJewish
SignificanceThe Maccabees successfully rebelled against Antiochus IV Epiphanes. According to the Talmud, a late text, the Temple was purified and the wicks of the menorah miraculously burned for eight days, even though there was only enough sacred oil for one day's lighting.
CelebrationsLighting candles each night. Singing special songs, such as Ma'oz Tzur. Reciting the Hallel prayer. Eating foods fried in oil, such as latkes and sufganiyot, and dairy foods. Playing the dreidel game, and giving Hanukkah gelt
Begins25 Kislev
Ends2 Tevet or 3 Tevet
Date25 Kislev, 26 Kislev, 27 Kislev, 28 Kislev, 29 Kislev, 30 Kislev, 1 Tevet, 2 Tevet, 3 Tevet
2018 dateSunset, 2 December –
nightfall, 10 December
2019 dateSunset, 22 December –
nightfall, 30 December
2020 dateSunset, 10 December –
nightfall, 18 December
2021 dateSunset, 28 November –
nightfall, 6 December
Related toPurim, as a rabbinically decreed holiday.