Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, will commence at sundown Sunday, Nov. 28, and end with nightfall Monday, Dec. 6.
The eight-day holiday commemorates the Maccabean Revolt when Jews fought against their oppressors during the second century B.C
On the first day of Hanukkah, the first candle in the eight-branched candelabra or menorah, is lit.
How To Celebrate
During Hanukkah, Jewish people place an even line of straight candles on the menorah. A candle is added each night as part of "lo moridim ba-kodesh," The meaning of this is that one does not decrease in holiness. The length of the ninth candle, which is placed in the middle of the menorah , is known as Shamash. It is kept either higher or lower than the others. Hanukkah lights can be either candle flames or oil-fueled.
During the celebrations, children are usually given Hanukkah gelt or money.
Here are few ways to celebrate Hanukkah with kids.
BOOKS
WOODEN FLAME-FREE MENOAH ! CHILD FRIENDLY
You can't celebrate Hanukkah without a menorah, A wooden menorah (above) is a safe way to light up for the 8 days of |Hanukkah and explain its meaning . We suggest to keep the adult menorah out of the reach of small fingers as its never safe to have children play with fire!
CRAFTS:
Make your own Hanukkah candles
Enjoy making these DIY Beeswax Hanakkah Candles that you can use for the eight nights!
FOOD & RECIPES:
The two most iconic Hanukkah foods -- latkes or potato pancakes, and sufganiyot or doughnuts -- are fried in oil.
LATKES
Ingredients:
5 large potatoes, peeled
1 large onion
3 eggs
1/3 cup flour
1 tsp. Salt
¼ tsp. pepper
¾ cup oil for frying
Use: 10-inch skillet Yields: 4 to 6 servings
Directions
Grate potatoes and onion on the fine side of a grater, or in a food processor; or put in a blender with a little water. Strain grated potatoes and onion through a colander, pressing out excess water. Add eggs, flour, and seasoning. Mix well. Heat ½ cup oil in skillet.
Reduce heat and place 1 large tablespoon batter at a time into hot sizzling oil and fry on one side for approximately 5 minutes until golden brown.
Turn over and fry on other side 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Continue with remaining batter until used up, adding more oil when necessary. Variation: Zucchini or Carrot Latkes: Substitute 5 medium zucchini or 5 medium carrots for potatoes.