Hanukkah (Chanukah) Dates for the Years 2023-2027: Mark Your Calendar for the Celebrations!
What’s Hanukkah?
Hanukkah, meaning “dedication” in Hebrew, is the Festival of Lights. It celebrates the Maccabees’ triumph over the Syrian Greek army and the miraculous rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, including the restoration of its menorah, or lamp.
The incredible part of the Hanukkah story is that they found only a small amount of oil—enough for just one day—but it miraculously lasted for eight days, illuminating the Temple lamp throughout.
Also spelled Chanukah, is a joyful 8-day Jewish festival that commemorates the remarkable victory of the Maccabees, Jewish freedom fighters, over the Seleucid Greeks in 139 BCE. After reclaiming Jerusalem’s Holy Temple, which had been turned into a site of idol worship, they sought pure oil for the Temple menorah. With only enough for one day, it miraculously burned for eight days until more oil could be obtained.
How to Celebrate Hanukkah?
At home, we celebrate by lighting the menorah. Each night, we add one more candle than the previous night. We also play dreidel, enjoy special Hanukkah foods, and sometimes sing songs. After lighting the menorah, or Hanukkah, as it’s also called, some folks exchange gifts. Many people also join or host parties to share in the festive spirit.
What Kinds of Food Are Eaten During Hanukkah?
A lot of Hanukkah foods are cooked by deep-frying in oil, which represents the oil from the menorah in the Temple. This includes tasty treats like latkes, which are potato pancakes, and jelly doughnuts. Another favorite is bimuelos, a delightful Sephardic dish. And, of course, many people enjoy topping their latkes with applesauce. Don’t forget about chocolate gelt—candy named after the Yiddish word for money—which is a popular treat.
To celebrate the miracle with oil, Chanukah brings delight in oily treats. For centuries, doughnuts (sufganiyot) have been a beloved Chanukah indulgence. Another classic, especially popular among Ashkenazi Jews, is the savory delight of potato pancakes (latkes). Also, it’s a tradition during Chanukah to savor dairy, a nod to the courageous Yehudit who served cheese and wine to a Greek general before outsmarting him.
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When Does Hanukkah Begin in 2023?
Hanukkah in 2023 kicks off at nightfall on December 7 and wraps up with nightfall on December 15. It starts on the Hebrew calendar date of 25 Kislev and lasts for eight days.
Other Hanukkah Dates:
2024: December 25-January 2
2025: December 14-22
2026: December 4-12
2027: December 24-January 1, 2027
How is Hanukkah Celebrated?
Throughout the eight nights of, Jewish families light special menorahs, adding a new flame each night until eight are aglow on the final night. This lighting typically occurs at home, near a window or doorway, following the recitation of brief blessings.
During Hanukkah, playing with dreidels—tops bearing Hebrew letters nun, gimmel, hay, and shin—is a common tradition.
In modern times, communal menorah lightings often take place in public squares, conveying the message of light prevailing over darkness and the freedom to worship God.
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Useful Chanukah Resources
- Chanukah blessings provided in Hebrew, English, and audio formats
- Comprehensive guide for lighting the menorah
- The captivating Chanukah story
- Daily Chanukah calendar
Plus, check out an inspiring Chanukah message in this video featuring the Rebbe.
What’s Hanukkah? Hanukkah, meaning “dedication” in Hebrew, is the Festival of Lights. It celebrates the Maccabees’ triumph over the Syrian Greek army and the miraculous rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, including the restoration of its menorah, or lamp. The incredible part of the Hanukkah story is that they found only a small amount…
