What is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is the Jewish Festival of Lights. The word 'Hanukkah' means 'Dedication' in Hebrew. It celebrates a miracle that happened in Jerusalem over 2,000 years ago.

When is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah (or Chanukah in Hebrew) is celebrated in November or December every year. It lasts for eight days.

In 2019 Hanukkah begins on the evening of Sunday 22 December.

What is the story of Hanukkah?

A long time ago a Syrian king called Antiochus banned the Jews from worshiping God. He put a big statue of himself in their temple and ordered them to bow before it.

A long time ago a Syrian king called Antiochus banned the Jews from worshiping God. He put a big statue of himself in their temple and ordered them to bow before it.

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How is Hanukkah celebrated?

Make your own dreidel
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Make your own dreidel

Download our dreidel template and play the dreidel game with your family and friends.

Where next?

What is Judaism?

What is Judaism?

KS2 Religious Education

What is Yom Kippur?

What is Yom Kippur?

KS2 Religious Education

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