Every December, my social feed lights up with trees, garlands, and photoshoots with Santa. And while I love seeing my friends’ traditions, this time of year looks a little different in my home. I’m one of the few Jewish contributors at St. Louis Mom, and this season gives me a chance to share what Hanukkah really means—and how you can support and celebrate alongside your Jewish neighbors.
With the surge of antisemitism in the US and around the globe, many Jewish families continue to feel vulnerable, and that sense of community and understanding matters more than ever.
So if you’ve ever wondered what Hanukkah is actually about, or how to be a supportive friend or neighbor, pull up a chair. I brought the latkes.(P.S. Hanukkah = Chanukkah, 2 spellings, same meaning)
Hanukkah Isn’t “Jewish Christmas” (And That’s a Good Thing)
The most common misconception is that Hanukkah is our version of Christmas. It’s not—at least not in purpose or religious significance.
Hanukkah is considered a minor holiday in Judaism. There’s no synagogue marathon, no fasting, no major commandments. What it does carry is a beautiful cultural and historical message: even the smallest light can brighten the darkest times.
And honestly? That message feels pretty timely.
The Real Story: Oil, Courage, and a Miracle That Still Inspires
Hanukkah, known as the “festival of lights,” is a joyful celebration honoring the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem to Judaism and the miracle of the light that ensued.
Here’s a condensed mom and kid-friendly version:
A long time ago, the Jewish people fought to preserve their identity against a powerful empire. The small Jewish army, known as The Maccabees, fought to win back their Jewish temple, which had been destroyed by their oppressors. When their Jewish temple was finally reclaimed, among the rubble they discovered the temple’s sacred menorah (like a candelabra) and enough oil to light it for one night … but it lasted eight! This miracle – of the light burning bright for 8 nights, despite all the obstacles, is the true meaning of Hanukkah.
You don’t have to be Jewish for that message to land.
It’s a story about resilience, hope, and holding onto who you are even when it’s hard.
Hanukkah Traditions: What Happens in Jewish Homes
Families gather, sing, say blessings, and spend quality time together. Some do gifts. Some share a gratitude. Some just try to keep the toddler from blowing the candles out.
While all families vary in their celebrations, here are some typical Hanukkah traditions:
🕯 Lighting the Menorah
Each night, we light the menorah – a large candelabra holding 9 candles. The center candle, known as the “shamash,” is lit every night and serves as a helper to light all the others. Each night of Hanukkah, we increase the light by burning one additional candle. The first night only 2 candles are lit, by the eighth night all 9 candles blaze bright.
🥔 Eating Fried Foods (yes, really)
The miracle of the oil translates to celebrating with fried foods! Basically, anything fried in oil gets a holiday pass 😊
Here are a few items traditionally eaten during Hanukkah:
- Crispy potato latkes – my kids gobble these up, we serve them with applesauce & sour cream
- Sufganiyot – also known as a jelly donut!
🎁 Gifts
This is more of an American add-on than a religious practice. Some families do one night of gifts, some do eight, and some do experiences or charity instead.
🕎 Dreidel
This is a fun, simple spinning game that kids adore and adults pretend not to take too seriously. The dreidel has 4 sides each, and players take turns spinning it. Each side of the dreidel corresponds to a rule in the game. Essentially, you spin to win (or lose) chocolate gelt (coins), although many families play with pennies or nuts. It’s a delicious and fun addition to any Hanukkah gathering.
This Year Feels Different—Here’s How That Shows Up
In past years, St. Louis families could readily find public menorah lightings, community festivals, and kid-friendly Hanukkah celebrations across the city.
But in recent years, many Jewish spaces have:
- Decreased the number of large public events
- Increased security
- Required registration or check-in
- Become more cautious about advertising widely
This isn’t meant to exclude anyone.
It’s meant to keep people safe in a climate where Jewish communities are navigating real concerns.
What’s important is this:
The welcome is still there. The warmth is still there. The desire to share our traditions is still there.
It just may look a little more protected than in years past.
Most Jewish parents I know want to share Hanukkah with their neighbors. They’re happy to answer questions. They love when schools include Jewish stories or symbols. They appreciate when someone simply says, “Happy Hanukkah.”
How to Support Your Jewish Friends and Neighbors
Last year I wrote about a kind gesture my neighbor did that still warms our family’s heart. Here are a few ways you can make a big impact with your Jewish neighbors and friends. These small gestures go a long way:
💙 1. Acknowledge the holiday
Even a simple “Happy Hanukkah!” means more than you know.
💙 2. Introduce your kids to Hanukkah traditions
Try reading a Hanukkah book from the library, playing dreidel, or making latkes. It’s not appropriation—it’s appreciation.
💙 3. Don’t shy away from asking respectful questions
Most Jewish families are used to being the “only one” in the room and are happy to share.
💙 4. Offer support this year
If news events feel heavy, check in. A little kindness can feel like a lot of light.
💙 5. Practice inclusive language during the winter season
Instead of “Christmas break,” try “winter break” or “holiday season.” These small shifts help Jewish kids feel seen.
Looking for Local Hanukkah Fun? Here’s Where to Start
Many organizations still host beautiful celebrations—some public, some registration-only. St. Louis staples include:
- The J (St. Louis Jewish Community Center)
- Local synagogues offering family events
- Hanukkah storytimes at local libraries
- Kosher bakeries or delis offering holiday treats
If you’re unsure whether an event is open to the public, just ask. Jewish organizations are often thrilled to welcome neighbors—they just want to do it safely.
A Final Word: Sharing the Light
Hanukkah teaches us that even a tiny flame can make a huge difference. This year, that message feels more powerful than ever.
As one of the Jewish voices here on St. Louis Mom, my hope is simple:
that by opening my home and my holiday to you—even just through words—you feel more connected to your Jewish neighbors, and that our community feels just a little brighter for it.
Here’s to finding light wherever we can.
And here’s to sharing it generously.
Happy Hanukkah, St. Louis.
May your season be warm, safe, joyful, and bright.
For more from the author, visit her blog fitnessfoodiestl.com
