Chanukah (Hanukkah) Shop

Chanukah 2026 begins on the evening of Friday, December 4, when the first light is lit, and ends at nightfall on Saturday, December 12 (dates from Hebcal). The first and eighth nights both fall on Friday this year, December 4 and December 11.

On Friday the Chanukah lights are lit before the Shabbos candles, so the menorah needs enough oil or long enough candles to keep burning until at least half an hour after nightfall. Standard small Chanukah candles may not last that long, so many families use larger oil cups or longer candles on Friday. Customs on exact timing differ; ask your rabbi.

Both. They are two English spellings of the same Hebrew word, חנוכה. You will also see Hanukah and Chanuka. Our listings use both spellings, so search with whichever you prefer.

Both are used. Many families prefer olive oil because the Chanukah miracle involved oil, while candles are simpler to set up and clean. Some menorahs take either. Oil menorahs need cups or glasses and wicks, which are sold separately unless the listing says they are included.

One more light is added each night, plus the shamash. That comes to 36 candles plus 8 shamash candles, or 44 per menorah. Most Chanukah candle boxes hold 44 or 45. Pre-filled oil cups are also sold in 44-count packs.

Electric and LED menorahs are popular for display, offices, dorms and places where open flames are not allowed. Many rabbis hold that they do not fulfill the mitzvah of lighting, which is done with oil or candles. Ask your rabbi about your situation.

In many families each child lights a menorah. Look for a stable base, cups or candle holders that sit level, and a size that fits safely on the table or windowsill. Children should always light with an adult watching.