What to Do on the Different Days of Hanukkah: A Day-by-Day Guide
Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, spans eight special days filled with family traditions, meaningful rituals, and joyful celebrations. Each day offers an opportunity to reflect, celebrate, and create memories. Here’s a simple day-by-day guide with ideas for what you can do throughout Hanukkah.
Light the First Candle
- Gather family and light the first candle of the menorah.
- Say the blessings and sing traditional Hanukkah songs.
- Enjoy classic treats like latkes (potato pancakes) or sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts).
- Share the story of the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil.
Second Day, Add the Second Candle
- Light two candles on the menorah.
- Play dreidel games with gelt (chocolate coins).
- Host a family game night or storytelling session.
- Donate gently used clothes or toys to charity.
Third Day, Light Three Candles
- Light three candles on the menorah.
- Try cooking a new Hanukkah recipe together as a family.
- Watch a Hanukkah-themed movie or read holiday books.
- Perform a kind deed, such as helping a neighbor or volunteering.
Fourth Day, Light Four Candles
- Light four candles and recite blessings.
- Organize a Hanukkah craft session—make paper menorahs or decorations.
- Invite friends or extended family for a festive meal.
- Reflect on gratitude and share things you are thankful for.
Fifth Day, Light Five Candles
- Light five candles and enjoy the glow of the menorah.
- Explore Jewish history or culture through documentaries or books.
- Host a small Hanukkah trivia night.
- Make homemade gifts to give to loved ones.
Sixth Day, Light Six Candles
- Light six candles and engage the whole family in lighting rituals.
- Plan a group outing to a synagogue or community Hanukkah event.
- Bake traditional Hanukkah cookies or treats.
- Share stories of miracles and hope in your personal or family life.
Seventh Day, Light Seven Candles
- Light seven candles and celebrate community.
- Organize a charity drive or fundraising activity.
- Play more dreidel or teach the younger ones about Hanukkah traditions.
- Spend quality time together, perhaps with a holiday-themed puzzle or book.
Eigth Day, Light All Eight Candles
- Light all eight candles plus the shamash (helper candle).
- Host a festive Hanukkah party with music, dancing, and storytelling.
- Exchange gifts and express appreciation for family and friends.
- Reflect on the lessons of perseverance, faith, and light.
Each evening of Hanukkah offers chances to deepen connections, spread joy, and honor tradition. Whether through prayer, play, or community, every day shines with meaning during this beautiful festival.
Below is a simple bullet list for you to print out outlining ideas and activities for each day to help you celebrate meaningfully.
Day 1: Light the First Candle
- Light the shamash and first candle on the menorah.
- Recite blessings and sing Hanukkah songs.
- Share the story of the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil.
- Enjoy traditional foods like latkes or sufganiyot.
Day 2: Light Two Candles
- Light two candles on the menorah.
- Play dreidel games with gelt (chocolate coins).
- Tell stories or watch a Hanukkah-themed movie.
- Donate to charity or perform a goodwill act.
Day 3: Light Three Candles
- Light three candles.
- Try a new Hanukkah recipe as a family.
- Craft Hanukkah decorations or cards.
- Reflect on gratitude with family discussions.
Day 4: Light Four Candles
- Light four candles.
- Host a small gathering or festive meal.
- Share personal or family traditions.
- Give gifts to family or friends.
Day 5: Light Five Candles
- Light five candles.
- Learn about historical aspects of Hanukkah.
- Play educational games about the holiday.
- Volunteer or do a community service activity.
Day 6: Light Six Candles
- Light six candles.
- Attend a local Hanukkah event or synagogue service.
- Bake Hanukkah treats together.
- Share stories of perseverance and hope.
Day 7: Light Seven Candles
- Light seven candles.
- Organize a charity drive or fundraiser.
- Teach younger children about Hanukkah symbols.
- Enjoy quality family time with games or reading.
Day 8: Light All Eight Candles
- Light all eight candles plus the shamash.
- Throw a festive Hanukkah party with music, food, and dancing.
- Exchange gifts and express appreciation.
- Reflect on the festival’s lessons of light and resilience.
This guide can enhance your Hanukkah celebrations, making each day unique and meaningful.