Four Coral Courts

The story of Hanukkah dates back to the year 167 BC, when Israel was being oppressed by Greek-Syrians. Practicing Judaism was forbidden, and the Jewish temple was defiled with pigs’ blood. A priest’s son named Maccabee led a revolt, taking back their city and their temple. When the temple was rededicated there was only enough oil to light the lamp one night, but somehow it burned for eight days and nights. That’s why the Festival of the Lights takes eight days to celebrate. Last year Hanukkah began on Christmas Eve, and next year it will begin December 2. Today is the first day of Hanukkah this year. You might celebrate by playing dreidl or by eating something fried in oil, like jelly donuts or potato latkes. Other traditional Hanukkah foods include brisket, short ribs, challah, and noodle kugel.