Among Jackson-Reed students, there are many different holidays celebrated in December. Some of your friends might be celebrating a Jewish holiday called Hanukkah. Hanukkah is an eight–day festival of lights, commemorating a miracle of the Jewish people. Widespread traditions include menorah lighting, making jelly donuts, and enjoying a game of dreidel with family. Although these are classic traditions, there are also many twists different families take on the eight nights.

Sophomore Abby Gilbert’s family combines Hanukkah with the Jewish tradition of eating Chinese food on Christmas Day. “We all eat Chinese food together and we light the menorah,” Gilbert said. “Even though I’m celebrating Christmas, it still lets me connect to my Jewish side.”

Another student’s grandmother sends a special gift every Hanukkah. “My grandma handmakes menorahs,” says sophomore Mollie Lauter, “because she can’t travel to see us, she sends us one every year.” Lauter says this is a way she can connect with her grandmother through art, which is very important to her family. “It’s a reminder that she’s there with us.” 

The Jewish Student Union also hosts an annual Hanukkah party with the Walls JSU. The fun includes a white elephant gift exchange, lots of Hanukkah food, and games for students to foster connection. 

This Hanukkah season, whether you’re eating Chinese food, opening a special reminder from a family member, or connecting with others, Jackson-Reed students find so many ways to celebrate this special holiday.