The festival of Hanukkah It is one of the most anticipated moments in the Jewish calendar, especially in large communities like those who live in the United States.
Although it is not considered a major celebration within Judaism, its historical symbolism, its family rituals and its luminous atmosphere have made it one of the most recognized winter traditions.
When does Hanukkah start in 2025
In this 2025, Hanukkah will begin at dusk on December 14 and will last until dusk on December 22.
As happens every year, the date is governed by the Hebrew calendar and marks its beginning on the 25th of Kislevextending for eight consecutive days.
In the United States, these dates usually coincide with the season prior to Christmas celebrations, which means that in many cities the public lighting events of the menorah They are part of the festive landscape at the end of the year.
How Hanukkah is celebrated in the United States
The most representative practice is precisely the daily lighting of the menorah: Each night a candle is added until the eight lights are completed on the last day.
The lighting is usually done in the home, placed in a visible window or entrance, accompanied by brief blessings that remember the miracle of the oil.
In recent decades, Jewish communities in the US have also incorporated public ceremonies. In cities like New York, Los Angeles or Miami, large lightings are organized highlight in squares, parks and community centers.
These events usually bring together families, religious leaders and visitors who want to learn more about the tradition.
Another common activity is playing with dreidela small spinning top marked with four Hebrew letters: jun, gimmel, yeahwhich represent the phrase “a great miracle occurred there.” Although it is a child’s game, It has become a cultural symbol that spans generations.
The historical origin of Hanukkah
Hanukkah remembers a key episode from the 2nd century BC. C., when The Maccabees, a group of Jews who rebelled against Seleucid oppression, managed to recover the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.
According to tradition, when you turn on the menorah From the Temple they only found enough pure oil for one day, but The flame remained lit for eight. That event was interpreted as a divine act and gave rise to eight days of commemoration.
This event is what keeps the essence of Hanukkah alive to this day, both in Israel and in the Jewish diaspora.
In the United States, Hanukkah has become an opportunity to highlight values of identity, freedom, and cultural continuity.
Beyond the decoration and community activities, the festival maintains its center in the home: in the lights that are turned on every night, in the coexistence with those closest to us and in the connection with a history that has transcended centuries.