Happy holidays: honoring Hanukkah and Christmas

As the end of the year approaches, days get shorter, and winter begins. For many families, this means celebrating Hanukkah or Christmas. Although these two holidays come from different backgrounds, they are celebrated around the same time each year. 

Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration beginning on the 25th day of the Hebrew month, Kislev, because of this, it lands on a different day each year. Traditionally, Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. 

According to the Jewish story, to rededicate the temple, the Jews needed to light the menorah, an ancient candelabrum (candle holder). In the temple, there was only enough oil to light the menorah for one day. Miraculously, that oil burned for eight days, symbolizing a spiritual endurance of Jewish faith. 

“My favorite part is lighting the menorah each night; it’s like a symbol of strength,” said Freida Crowell, who observes Hanukkah.

During Hanukkah, families usually get together to celebrate. Foods cooked in oil are eaten, such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts). Children will also play games like dreidel. Even though Hanukkah is considered a minor holiday in Judaism, it is still very meaningful for many families.

Christmas is celebrated on Dec. 25 every year. Traditionally, Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. But over the years, many traditions have blended together to create a secularized version of Christmas. Now over 90% of all Americans celebrate Christmas (secularly and religiously).

During Christmas, Christians will often attend church services and retell the story of Jesus Christ’s birth. According to the Holy Bible, Jesus, the savior of the world, was born to Virgin Mary, in a manger fulfilling a prophecy.

Non-Christians will celebrate by decorating their houses, putting up Christmas trees, exchanging gifts, and getting together with family and friends. 

At their core, both holidays, whether celebrated secularly or religiously are both in the end about being with family and friends. Despite their differences in origin and traditions, Hanukkah and Christmas both bring people closer during the winter season. 

“I really enjoy the holidays as I get to gather up with everyone I love and celebrate Christmas with them,” said Tiffany Renema, a CVHS student.