Family Hanukkah Traditions, Rituals, and Activities

Blessing Book
Start a blessing book by buying a simple journal. Keep the journal from year to year and have family members add new blessings every year. For those children that are not yet able to write, a simple picture will do.

Theme Night
Rather than celebrate each night of Hanukkah the same way, try incorporating a different theme for each night. Some suggestions to try are gift exchange night, family fun or game night, craft night (you can
make gifts for other family members), charity night, and grab bag night.

Make a Menorah
For those families who enjoy crafts, try making your own menorah. In our Family Projects section you can find directions and supplies to make a felt menorah.

Play Dreidel
A tradition around for years is Dreidel. Try playing a game with the entire family. The meaning behind each symbol can be found at holidays.net.

Gelt or Money Hunt
Keeping with Hanukkah tradition to give gelt or money during Hanukkah, parents can hide coins around the house and have the children find them. Gold foiled chocolate coins can be substituted for real money.

Light the Menorah
Establish a tradition of lighting the menorah every night.