Next month, Jewish people around the world will celebrate Hanukkah. In Israel, it is a festive time with many games, lights and delicious desserts, including different kinds of donuts!
I decided to learn about Hanukkah because I have always celebrated it in the United States. I wanted to see the differences in Israel, especially since the story takes place here! Last year, I even learned different songs in Spanish, French, and Arabic.
Hanukkah celebrates a miracle from long ago when a small amount of oil in the temple’s menorah burned for eight days instead of one. Religious Jews honor this event, while secular Jews use the holiday to enjoy family, light candles, eat special foods and take a joyful break from daily routines.
Hanukkah varies across Jewish communities. In Israel, public celebrations often include large outdoor menorah lightings, school events and community gatherings. In the US, families may focus on home celebrations with candles, games and dinners after work or school.
