Released: December 7, 2023
The eight-day Festival of Lights began at sundown on December 7
Delaware County Council extends a heartfelt Happy Hanukkah to residents celebrating the joyous eight-day Festival of Lights from December 7 - 15.
Hanukkah marks a time of reflection and festivity, drawing families and communities together in a beautiful symphony of traditions and shared memories.
Hanukkah has ancient roots, commemorating the second century B.C.E. reclaiming and rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem following a period of occupation and desecration of the holy place, according to ancient Hebrew texts like the Talmud and the books of the Maccabees.
The lighting of the menorah each night symbolizes the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days when it should have lasted for only one.
In addition to the menorah, Hanukkah is celebrated with various traditions, including special meals, songs, and games. Popular foods like potato pancakes (latkes) and doughnuts (sufganiyot), fried in oil, symbolize the miraculous oil. Children often receive gifts and Hanukkah gelt, traditionally given as money or chocolate coins in gold foil, and play with four-sided spinning tops, called dreidels, with sides bearing Hebrew letters representing the phrase "nes gadol haya sham," or "a great miracle happened there.”
Most importantly, Hanukkah is a poignant reminder of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a people. May these eight nights be filled with light, love, and hope.
Chag Sameach! Happy Hanukkah!