Jewish communities in California and across the world will soon celebrate Hanukkah, the “festival of lights” commemorating an important victory for Judaism, with latkes, lighting menorahs and more.
Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, begins on the 25th of Kislev, a month in the Jewish calendar, and will last for eight days. Over a decade ago, it overlapped with Thanksgiving. Last year, it overlapped with Christmas.
Hanukkah celebrates a victory that dates back more than 2,000 years, in which the Maccabees, Jewish fighters, revolted against Greek-Syrian oppression — and the outlawing of Judaism — that ultimately led to the rededication of a temple in Jerusalem, according to Chabad.org and the History Channel. As the story goes, there was a miracle in that the oil used to light the menorah, a candelabra, that was only enough to burn for one day instead burned for eight.
Need some holiday planning advice? Look no further
What day does Hanukkah start?
Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, Dec. 14, according to Chabad.org.
How many nights is Hanukkah?
Hanukkah lasts for eight days.
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When is the last night of Hanukkah 2025?
The last day of Hanukkah this year is on Monday, Dec. 22.
When was Hanukkah 2024?
Last year, Hanukkah was from Dec. 25 to Jan. 2.
Paris Barraza is a trending reporter covering California news at The Desert Sun. Reach her at pbarraza@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: When is the first night of Hanukkah 2025? When does it end?
Reporting by Paris Barraza, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
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