Celebrated Today
The best-known Hanukkah custom today is lighting the Hanukkah menorah, often called a hanukkiah.
The lamp has places for eight lights, one for each night of the festival. An additional light called the shamash is used to light the others.
One light is kindled on the first night. Another is added each evening until all eight festival lights are burning on the final night.
Families recite blessings and often sing Hanukkah songs. The lights are commonly placed where they can be seen by others.
Foods fried in oil are popular because of the later tradition concerning the miracle of the oil. Latkes and sufganiyot are among the best-known examples.
Children often play dreidel, a game using a four-sided spinning top. Giving Hanukkah gelt or gifts is also common in many communities.