Buying Hanukkah gifts

So, you’ve been invited to a Hanukkah party. You shouldn’t bring just anything, as Hanukkah gifts should be appropriate for the tradition. Here are some ideas for traditional gifts to bring to a Hanukkah party.

Hanukkah doughnuts

Yes, doughnuts are a great gift. In fact, they’re a Hanukkah tradition. Foods fried in oil are traditional because of the story of the oil that burned for eight nights – the miracle of Hanukkah. So sufganiyot, otherwise known as jelly doughnuts, are perhaps the perfect – and most delicious – gift.

Wine for Hanukkah

Wine is a great gift for any party, and it works well for a Hanukkah party as well. If the host keeps kosher, or if you are not sure, then check to be sure the wine you choose is kosher. Wine from Israel is surprisingly easy to come by these days at most wine stores. They may even have something special you can add, like a wine sleeve or wine glasses. Bottles of kosher wine generally range from $5 to $50. Manischewitz, one of the most popular brands, is available for less than $10.

Hanukkah wine glasses

Hanukkah chocolate

Chocolate coins (also known as “gelt“) are another Hanukkah tradition. Real coins are given traditionally to children each night of the holiday, but of course chocolate is a less expensive alternative. You can get bags of chocolate coins at most party stores and often at dollar stores during the holiday season. In addition to gelt, there is plenty of other kosher candy available to give as a gift.

Chocolate Hanukkah Gelt - Lieber's

Hanukkah candles and menorahs

A menorah as a gift could be a bit much for most parties, but if your host is very important, a special menorah can make a meaningful gift. A menorah holds nine candles, one for each night of Hanukkah plus an additional candle to light the others. The menorah signifies the eight nights of burning oil when there was only enough for one. Brass menorahs are widely available, or you could buy a gold or silver menorah for someone very special.

Brass menorahs

Candles are a bit more universal as a gift. Hanukkah candles are tall and tapered, and many are hand-dipped. You can obtain them in many colors and sizes. Menorahs can be found in all different colors and size. Prices can vary from $8 to $400.

Dreidels

We have all heard of a dreidel, but what is it? A dreidel is a four-sided spinning top that is a traditional Jewish toy. Children used to make their own, but now you should be able to find them online, in most toy stores, or specialty stores. Chocolate coins are good prizes for the game associated with the dreidel. The actual toys are made of plastic or wood, or you could buy a large and elaborate crystal dreidel made for display. The Waterford Crystal dreidel below costs $80.

Waterford Crystal Dreidel

Hanukkah cookies

You can give Hanukkah cookie cutters as a gift, or you can use those cutters to make your own cookies, which may be more appreciated. Decorate the cookies in blue and white kosher icing or sprinkles, the colors of the Israeli flag, or use other decorations and frostings to liven them up. You can also buy a Hanukkah cookie kit with all the necessary ingredients for baking.

Crayola Crafty Cooking Kits - Happy Hanukkah Cookie Kit

Hanukkah books, music, and movies

There are books, CDs, and DVDs for Hanukkah as well as other holidays. Look for Adam Sandler’s “Eight Crazy Nights” or a CD compilation of his funny Hanukkah songs. Another classic comedy is The Hebrew Hammer, featuring a Jewish hero detective. You may want to buy a picture book for children that tells the story of Hanukkah, or a CD of traditional Hanukkah songs.

Hanukkah picture books

Other Hanukkah items

During the holiday season, all sorts of Hanukkah items are available. Gift baskets, dishes, or other holiday-themed items can make appropriate gifts. You want to wrap your gifts in Hanukkah-themed paper. For the younger crowd, humorous Hanukkah t-shirts make fun wardrobe additions, like those at Rotem Gear.

Hanukkah is a spirited celebration, and gift-giving is a fun part of it. Stick with these suggestions, and your hosts will be very appreciative!