Hanukkah, or Chanukah, begins on the 25th day of the month of Kislev in the Jewish calendar. It is usually in December. In 2008 Hanukkah begins at sunset on December 21 and lasts through sunset on December 29. In 2009 Hanukkah begins at sunset on December 11 and lasts through sunset December 19.
Hanukkah is a fun holiday, especially for children. After lighting the Hanukkah candles, families will eat and play games.
For those of the Jewish faith this holiday is really not like Christmas. There are other holidays in that religion that are considered by many to be more important than Hanukkah. The fact that both Christmas and Hanukkah are times when people exchange gifts are really all that the two holidays have in common. You'll not find many community happenings, parades and festivals relating to Hanukkah. It is more of a quiet, family holiday.
Celebrate Hanukkah
Chanukah Storytime
Sunset Library, Chandler
Come hear favorite Chanukah stories and decorate your own wooden dreidel. Reading, fingerplays, crafts, holiday music, hot latkes and lots of fun. All ages welcome. No registration required. Free. 5:30 p.m.
In 2008: December 18
Hanukkah Storytime
Glendale Main Library
Children and families are welcome to attend this special storytime which will feature Hanukkah holiday stories. Free. 7 p.m.
In 2008: December 18
Maccabeat - The Hanukkah Musical
Arizona Jewish Theater
The Arizona Jewish Theatre Co. is co-producing the musical "Maccabeat" with Jess Schwartz College Prep School. "How hottie Judah Maccabee became the hero of Hanukkah." Phoenix College, John Paul Theater, 11th Ave and Thomas Rd in Phoenix.
Call for info 602-264-0402 or 602-264-7131
In 2008: December 20, 21
Chompie’s Chanukah Dinner
Join the Chompie’s family on the first night of Chanukah and celebrate with a traditional Chanukah feast. Includes appetizer, soup, entree, a basket of dinner rolls served with glazed carrots, holiday dessert, a glass of wine for adults, a fountain soda, coffee or tea. Reservations taken for parties of 6 or more. Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Tempe locations.
In 2008: December 21, 4 p.m. to close
Mazelpalooza
At Mondrian Hotel in Scottsdale. "jews, booze, schmooze." $25 per person in advance online or $30 at the door. 21+ only.
In 2008: December 24, 8 p.m.
There are Hanukkah activities for the members of various Jewish organizations in Greater Phoenix. Typically, you'll find latke making, Hanukkah songs, story times, family games and menorah lightings. Here are some local resources where you might find Hanukkah celebrations.
- Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center
- Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix
- Barness Family Jewish Community Center
- Other Jewish Organizations and Synagogues in and around Phoenix
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Tree lightings, holiday lights, festivals, holiday music and entertainment, gift guides and holiday travel tips -- find them all in the Holidays Guide for Greater Phoenix.
All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.
