Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday, often referred to as the "Festival of Lights." Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days and nights, starting on the 25th of the Jewish month of Kislev.  Hanukkah 2021 starts at sundown of November 28 ending at sundown on Monday, December 6, 2021.   For eight nights, families say prayers and then light candles in an eight-branched candelabra called a menorah. Most families also serve special holiday foods, sing songs, play games, and give gifts including Hanukah gelt also known as chocolate coins.

The Hanukkah story is based on historical events that took place in 165 BCE in Jerusalem. After the Second Temple in Jerusalem was desecrated, a Jewish priest, Mattathias, and his sons rebelled. Retaking Jerusalem and the Temple, they lit the menorah but had only enough oil for one night. Miraculously, the lamp stayed lit for eight days until enough holy oil could be procured.

It became a more significant holiday in the western world because of its proximity to Christmas and among more secular Jews to participate in the cultural build-up to the winter solstice. As a result, gift-giving was added, in addition to the traditional gift of Hanukkah gelt.

Happy Hannukah from the family of agents and staff at Waterfront Properties and Club Communities.