Today, after sunset, begins the first day of the eight-day celebration of Hanukkah, The Festival of Lights. It commemorates not only the victory of the Maccabees, a Jewish rebel army, over the Syrians in 165 B.C.E. after they seized control of the holy
temple in Jerusalem, but also the subsequent rededication of the Temple. Jews celebrate with eight nights of traditions including the lighting of the menorah, the exchange of gifts, and treats cooked in oil.*
The Countdown to Christmas Challenge for today is to embrace an opportunity to have a new cultural experience. Prepare some potato pancakes or latkes (a traditional Hanukkah dish) for dinner. Serve them with applesauce on top or on the side. Your family will love them!
* From What is Hanukkah at about.com
Visit the 100 Days to Christmas Facebook page and tell us how you celebrated Hanukkah today.
