Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights will commence at sundown Sunday, Nov. 28th!
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!
Amazon : Beeswax Hanukkah Candles
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.