Thursday, November 29, 2007

Do You Celebrate Hanukkah?


Hanukkah is a widely celebrated American Jewish holiday. The celebration includes food, exchange of gifts, playing the dreidel game, and lighting of the Menorah, that is filled with brightly colored candles.

The Menorah is a candle stand that has nine branches. It holds eight candles, one for each night of Hanukkah, plus a shammus (servant) candle at a different height. Each evening, one candle is lit, from right to left, with a special blessing. The dreidel game, that is played with a square top is also a tradition. Most play for pennies, matchsticks, m&ms or chocolate coins.

The traditional foods are fried or baked in oil; such as potato pancakes, or a jelly filled doughnuts. Dairy products and especially cheese is another Hanukkah tradition.

The Jewish festival is celebrated on eight consecutive days. It is also known as the Festival of Lights, Feast of the Maccabees and Feast of Dedication.

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