Hanukkah Gifts
Treat your loved ones at Hanukkah
Depending on your location, finding a Hanukkah gift can be a bit of a challenge. Big cities with a large Jewish population like Chicago, New York, L.A. and Miami will be rife with shops and boutiques that offer Judaica; however, small town living may make Hanukkah gift shopping a bit of a struggle. If you’re struggling to find Hanukkah gifts this year, consider some of the following tips.
First of all, consult your phone book and call any local synagogues to inquire whether or not they have a gift shop. Many synagogues offer this service precisely to keep you from struggling. If you can’t find a shop near you, consider searching online. Shopping online will offer you a massive selection of Hanukkah paraphernalia from Hanukkah gift wrap to Hanukkah greeting cards, as well as some more humorous Hanukkah gifts likely to be appreciated by the younger crowd.
Once you’ve located a retailer, consider handmade artwork, a new menorah (symbolic Jewish candelabra) or a dreidel. If all else fails, consider giving a Hanukkah gift basket, complete with eight gifts. Consider using the traditional foods of the day, like latke, some kosher wine (you may also find varieties of Jewish beer that will be adored by recipients) and some other Hanukkah-specific items. If you plan to give a Hanukkah gift basket with food items, consider giving a Jewish recipe book to go along with it. Your recipient will be thrilled!
How Many Gifts?
Traditionally, eight gifts are given to represent the eight nights of Hanukkah. These Hanukkah gifts can be anything from Yiddish children’s books to Tzedakah piggy banks. Tzedakah is the Hebrew word meaning “charity” and Tzedakah banks are designed for children and adults alike to set aside some money for a worthy cause.
You will be able to find a plethora of ideas for Hanukkah giving by performing a quick online search. Consider consulting others to find out what gifts are appropriate and which Hanukkah gifts will be best received. For an added touch, be sure to use Hanukkah gift wrap when decorating your gifts.
You may also find it beneficial to send a Hanukkah greeting card. This is perfect for those who have Jewish friends or loved ones but do not practice the Jewish tradition themselves. Hanukkah gift cards are a great way to express respect for this all-important holiday, even if you know very little about the meaning behind each of the celebrated Jewish traditions.
