Community Celebrations Lesson 4

Which celebration do these items make you think of?

History of Hanukkah 2000 years ago, a wicked king named Antiochus took over the Jewish temple and didn’t allow them to worship there. The Jews fought back and won! After taking back the temple, the Jews cleaned it very well then celebrated for eight nights and days because that was the length of their harvest festival, Sukkot. Even though there was only enough oil for one night, it lasted for eight! It was considered a miracle!

Traditions of Hanukkah One candle is lit every night in the menorah Prayers are said every night Tell the story of Hanukkah Eat foods made with oil like latkes and jelly filled doughnuts Play dreidel Sing songs and put on plays Give gifts Help those in need Spend time with family and friends Each community has their own traditions that may or may not include the above traditions. They may also have other traditions not listed here. Does your community/family celebrate Hanukah? If so, how?

Hanukkah Facts Jewish people celebrate Hanukkah. Hanukkah was the new name for the Sukkot festival after the miracle. Hanukkah means “rededication” and it is also called “The Festival of Lights” The helper candle used to light the others is called the “shamash” Dreidel is played with pennies, nuts or even raisins. If you win, you get to keep these! Gelt are gold coins given as gifts Some get gifts each night of Hanukkah while others get one gift on the last night.

Artifacts of Hanukkah

Draw a picture of Hanukkah

Let’s share!