Happy Hanukkah!

December sees the yearly Jewish Festival of Light, known as Hanukkah. In my family, we light a candle on the first day of Hanukkah, and seven more on consecutive days until the menorah is fully lit, displayed by the window. We will also be feasting on homemade latkes (which are similar to hashbrowns, only better!) with sour cream, and doughnuts.

The word Hanukkah, or Chanukah in Hebrew, means ‘dedication’, and it is a time that celebrates one of the greatest miracles in Jewish history. Jews come together to mark the time when, over 2,000 years ago, the Jews won a battle against the Greeks to practice their religion freely. Although there was only enough oil to keep the lamp burning for a single day, it miraculously lasted for eight. This enduring light is the reason Hanukkah is celebrated over eight days and why the symbolism of light holds such special meaning in the festival. Honoured by menorah lighting, festive foods, games, and community gatherings, it remains a cherished celebration of Jewish history, resilience, and joy.

As tradition, my family and I will be taking our annual New Year’s Day stroll along the local coastline to ring in 2026. However you celebrate, I wish you all a happy and healthy festive period and New Year.