Do people celebrate Hanukkah in Israel?

Hanukkah is a festive holiday celebrating two things: the miraculous military victory of a small band of Jews (led by Judah Maccabee) over the occupying Seleucid ... Hanukkah traditions. Unlike in the U.S. and elsewhere, Hanukkah in Israel is not a holiday of gift giving for eight days. read more

In Israel, Hanukkah is a festive holiday celebrated with much joy and creativity. For weeks before the holiday, young kids prepare different crafts related to Hanukkah, learn songs and stories, and during the holiday have Hanukkah parties at school and performances in after-school activities. read more

However, children do receive Hanukkah “gelt” (coins) made out of chocolate and dreidels, and every one does light candles, like in America. Furthermore, young Israeli children frequently do crafts related to the holiday, sing various songs, have parties, and go to Hanukkah performances. read more

It doesn't have the same importance as Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, Pesakh, and Shavuot (Torah-ordained Jewish holidays) nor the same emphasis as Christmas does among non-Jews in the US; however, it is still a Jewish holiday. read more