If you’re scratching your head for another year of unique Hanukkah gifts, or you just don’t know which Hanukkah gifts are given, relax! We’ve got you covered with eight presents for the eight nights of this special holiday.
1. Game sets
If you’ve been invited to spend Hanukkah with a family, table games are great Hanukkah gifts for children and everyone else to enjoy. Give your game set on the first night of Hanukkah and enjoy many evenings of happy memories while the candles burn low.
2. Cocktail accessories
“Over a bottle of wine, many a friend is found.” — Jewish proverb
Hanukkah is all about celebrating — it’s the most joyous time of year in the Jewish faith. Make the celebrations even more enjoyable with new cocktail accessories and watch your gift keep on giving for the rest of the festivities. (Cocktail and wine accessories are also a good bet if you’re stuck for Hanukkah hostess gift ideas!)
3. Gifts that give back
Hanukkah means “dedication” in Hebrew, so what better way to honor the spirit of the holiday than with gifts that pay it forward? Choose a gift that gives back or make a donation to your loved one’s favorite cause and participate in tikkun olam (repairing the world) together for Hanukkah this year.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider a Kiva gift card that provides microfinance opportunities for deserving entrepreneurs and let your recipient have the fun of choosing a recipient, tracking the loan, and receiving feedback along the way.
4. Photo frames and photo albums
For many families, the eight nights of Hanukkah mean a chance to spend more quality time together, reliving old memories and making new ones. Handmade photo frames or photo albums become unique Hanukkah gifts when filled with happy moments from the past, and your recipient is sure to treasure it for many Hanukkahs to come.
5. Tableware
Hanukkah is all about spreading cheer and spending time with the family — and, as with many Jewish holidays, lots of food is usually involved! Make the nights of Hanukkah extra-special for your gift recipient with new dinnerware, serveware, or table linens — bonus points for gifting in blue, white, and silver, the traditional colors of Hanukkah.
6. Inspirational jewelry
Since Hanukkah celebrates miracles and the triumph of hope over despair, inspirational jewelry pieces make great Hanukkah gifts for women.
7. Journals
For many, Hanukkah represents a time to rededicate themselves to the Jewish faith and reflect on remaining true to their beliefs and practices. A handmade journal makes a thoughtful Hanukkah gift for kids or anyone else on your list you want to inspire.
8. Traditional Hanukkah gifts
If you’re more the traditional type, or if you’re simply out of Hanukkah present ideas, you really can’t go wrong with the classic gifts of the holiday. Chocolate gelt and dreidels will delight children, while their parents might enjoy a beautiful menorah, Kosher gift basket, or “real” gelt in the form of money or a gift card.
Make this Hanukkah one to remember
Whether you give gifts on all eight nights or only do one night of gift exchange, the Festival of Lights is all about being close to the ones you love. Whatever you end up giving to your friends and loved ones for Hanukkah, it’s the spirit of giving and the happiness you spread that will make the holiday really special.
Have you received any especially heartfelt Hanukkah gifts? Are there any ideas that we missed? Tell us about it in the comments!
