When it comes to Jewish festivals, Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah, is definitely one of the more well-known. It is a Jewish celebration that spans across eight days that commemorates the time during 200 B.C. where the Second Temple in Jerusalem was rededicated. Also known as the Festival of Lights, it is celebrated with traditional games and foods as well as the lighting of the menorah.
During such times of festivities, it is normal to want to gift your Jewish friends and family something to wish them well. However, there are also many regulations dictating what is kosher and not. Here is a simple guide on what to do and what to avoid to not give offense.
Things to Do
Something else you can consider is to first ask about any specific family gifting traditions. Many people will have different traditions that they keep to, and some might skip the gift exchange altogether. The best way to prepare for getting a gift is to simply ask politely about what you need to bring. If you ask in a polite manner, they probably will not mind at all.
The best way to convey your thoughts and personal feelings is to get a small, meaningful gift. The best way to do this is to look for something that you truly believe that they will enjoy like flowers or a good book. Hand-made items like cards, clothes, or even crafts are also extremely thoughtful gifts.
Another option to get as a gift is food. Whether it is getting a chocolate gelt for the children, traditional fried potato latke, or even Hanukkah cakes. Hanukkah is generally a festival for fried food, but a well-presented gourmet snacks gift basket or a kosher wine gift basket are also excellent kosher gift ideas that have been properly curated for the occasion.
Things to Avoid Doing
The most important thing is to avoid mixing up Hanukkah gifts with your Christmas gifts for your Jewish friends or family. While they both take place during Christmas, they are distinct festivals and deserve their own special celebrations.
In particular, do not use the classic Christmas wrapping papers or get green and red gifts. Hanukkah has its own unique color associations and blue and white items are preferred. If you plan to wrap your gift up with wrapping papers, it is best to get prints that feature either the Menorah or the Star of David.
If you plan to get food items, it is crucial that the items are all kosher. While the food restrictions may differ based on the family’s preferences or dietary needs, there are a set of general restrictions to adhere to. For example, dairy and meat items should not be prepared, mixed, or even presented together in the same gift. The best way to go forward with food-related gifts is to look for options that are specially listed as Kosher or to avoid meat, shellfish, and dairy items as far as possible.
