How is Chanukah celebrated?
On each of the eight days of Chanukah, we light the menorah, a nine-branched candelabra, after nightfall (aside for Friday afternoon, when the candles are lit shortly before sunset). On the first night we kindle one light plus the shamash (attendant candle), on the second night we kindle two lights plus the shamash, and so we continue until the eighth night when we kindle all eight lights plus the shamash. The menorah lights can be either candles or oil and wicks. It is traditional to eat foods fried in oil on Chanukah, to commemorate the miracle of Chanukah which occurred with oil. It is also customary to eat dairy foods during the holiday. It is customary on Chanukah to give money gifts to children, and to play dreidel games. It is also customary to give an increased amount of charity each day of Chanukah. There are also certain passages we add to the daily prayers and Grace after Meals. Click here to read more about these Chanukah customs and observances.
