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Decorate For Your Hanukkah Celebration with Intention
Hanukkah is around the corner! It’s that time of year when mitzvahs seem plentiful, and the latkes appear to be never-ending. For eight bright nights, we honor the miracle of the Maccabees and celebrate alongside loved ones who make the holiday shine. While the heart of the holiday lies in lighting the menorah, it is not uncommon to be invited to a social gathering. Here are our tips on how to decorate for eight nights worth of celebration and rejoicing over miracles and galt.
Tip 1: Decorate With Sentimental Pieces
With how often products pop up on social media, it can feel like we should keep updating our décor to keep up with what’s trending. We’re all for adding new mementos to your holiday collection, but remember, you don’t have to give up your favorite pieces just because they don’t fit into this year’s trending aesthetic. Just because something is antiquated, don’t disregard the significance and the memories built around the object. By bringing out specific pieces each year, especially Judaica, the more these objects tell your story. As you get ready for your celebrations, remember that sentiment always outweighs the trends.
Tip 2: Picking Your Menorah
The reason for the season is the menorah lighting ceremony, a tradition that dates back to 2 BCE. Even as presents pile up and new traditions join the party, the menorah lighting remains the heart of Hanukkah.
Menorahs
The menorah is more than a generic candelabrum or festive piece of decor; it is a symbolic piece of Judaica. It is a reminder that even in darkness, light can reveal miracles. To fulfill the commandment of pirsumei nisa, publicizing the miracle, it is common practice to display it in a place where others can see it, such as a window.
Different branches of Judaism have varying customs regarding the number of menorahs they display. Sephardic communities typically light a single menorah per household, whereas in Ashkenazi customs, it is typical that each family member has their own. Regardless of which practice you follow, it is not uncommon to have a central menorah for your family to gather around.
To light a menorah is to celebrate strength and resilience, but many are designed to encapsulate other aspects of the Jewish faith. When choosing a menorah for your family, consider symbolism and design elements that hold a personal connection to your household that will make you excited to gather around it for years to come.
Our Chanukah Chair Menorah, designed by Richard Wessner, showcases a blend of tradition and playful design.
Hanukkah Candles
The candles on the menorah symbolize the eight nights of light that guided the Maccabees. Let your Hanukkah spirit shine bright with festive candles. While the style of the candles does not matter, using colorful or intricately designed ones is a fun way to add extra brightness and charm to your celebration.
Tip 3: A Festive Tablescape
Although Hanukkah is often associated with playing for gelt rather than a formal sit-down meal, the holiday provides a special opportunity to gather, connect, and celebrate together. Whether you’re hosting a seated dinner or a casual cocktail party, don’t hesitate to add some sparkle to your table setting.
Besamin Boxes
If you have sentimental pieces of Judaica, don’t be afraid to show them off during your festivities; it adds a personal touch to your table. Besamin Boxes are not specific to Hanukkah, but they are significant during the Havdalah ceremony at the conclusion of Shabbat, so they can tie in with your holiday celebration.
Abraham’s Ram Besamin Spice Box in Bronze by Richard Wessner. This piece is a symbol of faith and tradition.
Many are intricately designed, and putting them on the table gives guests a chance to reflect on the different traditions that make up the Jewish faith.
Tablecloths and Runners
While your guests are probably more focused on the food on the table, rather than what’s on it, a festive tablecloth or runner elevates any space. If you want to keep a cohesive look for your celebration, consider matching your tablecloth to the candle colors on your menorah. To add contrast and visual interest, try a table runner featuring the Star of David.
Kiddush Cups
Holidays are the perfect time to bring out sentimental glassware for toasting. While kiddush cups aren’t specific to Hanukkah, they complement every table setting and are a staple in celebrations. Using these pieces on your table surrounds you with the traditions of your ancestors while honoring how their sacrifices shaped the present. As you raise your kiddush cup in celebration, it’s also a moment to reflect on the miracles you’ve experienced in your own life
From us here at Forgotten Judaica, we wish you and your family a Happy Hanukkah!
