3 ways to celebrate Hanukkah with your school community
Image: Close-up of a hand spinning a dreidel next to a plate of sufganiyot.
What is Hanukkah?
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that celebrates resilience, hope and the miracle of light. The word Hanukkah means ‘dedication’ and is observed for eight nights and days.
1. Spin a dreidel
It’s tradition to play with a dreidel at Hanukkah. It’s fun and easy for children to learn.
You’ll need a dreidel (a four-sided spinning top with Hebrew letters: Nun (נ), Gimel (ג), Hei (ה), and Shin (ש)) and chocolate coins.
Each player starts with an equal number of chocolate coins and puts one in the centre of the table. Players take turns spinning the dreidel to see what letter it lands on.
Each letter tells the player what to do:
- Nun (נ) — Nothing – Do nothing, your turn is over
- Gimel (ג) — All – Take everything in the pot
- Hei (ה) — Half – Take half of the pot (round up if it’s an odd number)
- Shin (ש) — Put in – Add one piece to the pot
The game continues until one person has all the pieces or everyone else is out. You can also set a time limit and see who has the most pieces at the end.
2. Share the story of Hanukkah
Partner with a parent or local community member to come in and share the story behind Hanukkah. You can also read a picture book like Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins or The Story of Hanukkah to younger pupils. Add a Q&A or discussion time to spark curiosity and understanding.
3. Offer Hanukkah sweets
Organise a tasting table featuring sufganiyot (jam-filled doughnuts), latkes (potato pancakes) or packaged gelt (chocolate coins). Be sure to include allergy information and consider offering gluten-free or dairy-free options so everyone can take part.
Image designed by Freepik
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