Gearing Up for Hanukkah - The Israeli Way
The Festival of Lights
Starting this coming Sunday, December 2, Hanukkah kicks off in a special way in Israel. We’ve included a few ways Israelis will be celebrating this festive holiday below.
It’s time to think beyond the latke.
In Israel, Sufganiyot (donuts) are even more popular than latkes. Each year, Israelis will consume approximately 24 million of these fried treats made especially for the holiday - and every year there are even more creative recipes to devour. Check out a video here and even more places to eat the special donuts here.
What about the miracle of the oil?
The annual Ein Yael Oil Festival in Jerusalem takes you back to ancient times. Learn how to make olive oil the old-fashioned way. The story of Hanukkah is a part of the many activities taking place during the festival. Also, have you visited the Museum of Edible Oil Production? It’s a wonderful place to learn about the tradition of olive oil production in Israel (and beyond Hanukkah).
Work Off the Extra Calories: Marching with World Jewry
All Together Now! is a march organized by the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, a start of a new tradition during Hanukkah. On December 3rd about 5,000 marchers will parade through Jerusalem as a show of solidarity with Diaspora Jewry. The parade to spread the light will include marching bands, huge floats and a gala concert featuring Netchi Netch and Matisyahu. Check out their Facebook page for more.