Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, is an eight-day celebration commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem following the Maccabean Revolt. This joyous holiday celebrates the miracle of one day's worth of oil lasting for eight days when the Temple was rededicated. Each night, families gather to light the menorah (or hanukkiah), adding one candle each evening until all eight are lit, symbolizing the eight days the oil burned. The celebration is rich with traditions, including playing dreidel, a spinning top game that recalls the ways Jewish children disguised their Torah studies during times of persecution. Traditional Hanukkah foods focus on oil-based dishes like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts), reminding celebrants of the miracle of the oil. Families exchange gifts each night, sing traditional songs like 'Maoz Tzur,' and share stories of the Maccabees' bravery and faith. The holiday emphasizes themes of religious freedom, perseverance, and the triumph of light over darkness. Modern celebrations often include community gatherings, where larger menorahs are lit in public spaces, fostering a sense of unity and pride. Children receive chocolate gelt (coins) and learn about their heritage through songs, games, and stories. Many families display their menorahs in windows, sharing the miracle's light with neighbors and passersby. The holiday has evolved to include contemporary traditions while maintaining its core spiritual significance, with many communities organizing Hanukkah festivals, concerts, and educational programs. It's a time for reflection on religious freedom, cultural identity, and the importance of maintaining traditions in the modern world.