Winter's officially shivered its way into our lives: days are shorter, temperatures are dropping — and it’s time for the holiday season! Hanukkah will be here before we know it!
When the holiday begins on December 7 at sundown, are you ready to impress your family and friends? Well, we’ve got some ideas to help you get into the holiday spirit ASAP.
The Essentials
If you celebrate Hanukkah, you’re likely familiar with the first item on our list: the menorah. These candelabras are a staple in both modern and traditional “Festival of Light” celebrations, and they’re often considered family heirlooms. If you’re in need of a new menorah, check out this option from Sur La Table that can be used and passed down for years to come.
Now that you’ve got your menorah, it’s time to buy the candles. Every year, you’ll need 45 candles total in order to follow the standard practice of menorah lighting in the Jewish tradition — one candle to light all other candles (the “shammash”), plus a candle representing each passing night for the duration of Hanukkah (one on the first night, two the second night, and so on).
Look for packs of candles that include all you’ll need, like this one from Michaels which comes in a variety of color options.
One of the best parts of any Jewish holiday is the food — and Hanukkah is no exception (*cue the latkes, applesauce and sufganiyot*)! You’ll need something to serve these delicious holiday treats on, and we’ve got you covered.
Check out this themed serving platter from Walmart. (Hint: A themed serving tray can also be great as a gift to the host or hostess if you’re attending a Hanukkah party.)
The Decor
For each night of Hanukkah, it’s customary to place the lit candles in the front window of your home to symbolize your belief and faith in Judaism, despite the hardships our community has endured.
If you’re unable to safely place your lit menorah on your windowsill, whether it’s to avoid the fire hazard or something else, consider purchasing an electric menorah specifically for the window, like this one from Target, in order to take part in the tradition.
Whether you’re hosting a Hanukkah party or putting together a nice family meal for the holiday, a table runner might be one of the most cost-effective ways to incorporate festive decor into your home. Consider this plastic table runner from Kohl's, which is currently offering 2% cash back.
If you’re looking for some fireplace mantel decor other than stockings for the festive season, there are little knickknacks (or “tchotchkes,” as my Yiddish-speaking family calls them) and Hanukkah-themed string lights to adorn the area. QVC currently offers a wooden display that can be perfect for above the fireplace, or even on your coffee table.
The Extras
You might have heard of the Elf on the Shelf, but have you heard of the Mensch on a Bench? That’s right — Jews have one, too!
If you want to bring some extra holiday cheer to your home for Hanukkah, Walmart offers a version that includes both the Mensch and the corresponding story book.
The holidays are for family time, so it’s always good to think of ways to celebrate together. Whether it’s a group photo for a holiday card or a nice family meal, connecting with each other is the true meaning of the season. Get the whole family involved in a festive way with matching pajama sets from Hanna Andersson.
Now that you know what to buy and where, make sure to save on your purchases with our unbeatable cash back offers. Happy Hanukkah!
by Samantha Landau
Samantha “Sam” Landau (she/her) is a consumer expert at TopCashback.com. Since joining the TopCashback team in June 2021, she’s constantly looking for ways to help members save money by monitoring emerging trends in the consumer industry. Outside of that, Sam has a passion for mental health advocacy and strives for equity & inclusivity in all aspects of her life. And since TopCashback prides itself in “fair play,” this self-described “zillenial” feels right at home with the USA’s most generous cash back site.