As of December 14, 2025, Jewish families around the world are already preparing for the first night of Hanukkah 2026, which will begin at sundown on Friday, December 4, 2026. The eight-day celebration, known as the Festival of Lights, will run through the evening of Saturday, December 12, 2026.
The start of Hanukkah marks a time of joy, reflection, and unity across Jewish communities in the United States and abroad. As the first candle is lit on December 4, homes will fill with warmth and light, celebrating faith, resilience, and the miracle that has inspired generations for over two millennia.
When Is the First Night of Hanukkah 2026?
Hanukkah always begins on the 25th day of Kislev, a date on the Hebrew calendar that changes annually on the Gregorian calendar. In 2026, that day falls on Friday, December 4.
This means that the first menorah candle lighting will occur on a Friday evening, coinciding with the start of Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath). Because of this overlap, many families will light their Hanukkah candles before the Shabbat candles, making the first night a particularly meaningful and memorable one.
Here is the complete Hanukkah 2026 candle lighting schedule:
| Night | Date | Day | Number of Candles Lit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Night | Friday, Dec. 4 | Friday Night | 1 candle + shamash |
| 2nd Night | Saturday, Dec. 5 | Saturday Night | 2 candles + shamash |
| 3rd Night | Sunday, Dec. 6 | Sunday Night | 3 candles + shamash |
| 4th Night | Monday, Dec. 7 | Monday Night | 4 candles + shamash |
| 5th Night | Tuesday, Dec. 8 | Tuesday Night | 5 candles + shamash |
| 6th Night | Wednesday, Dec. 9 | Wednesday Night | 6 candles + shamash |
| 7th Night | Thursday, Dec. 10 | Thursday Night | 7 candles + shamash |
| 8th Night | Friday, Dec. 11 | Friday Night | 8 candles + shamash |
| Hanukkah Ends | Saturday, Dec. 12 | Saturday Night | Concludes at sunset |
Each evening, families will gather to light one additional candle, culminating in a fully illuminated menorah on the final night.
Why Hanukkah’s Dates Change Every Year
Unlike fixed holidays on the Gregorian calendar, Jewish holidays follow the Hebrew lunar calendar, which is based on the moon’s cycles. The lunar year is about eleven days shorter than the solar year, causing holidays like Hanukkah to “move” slightly each year when converted to Western dates.
The festival always begins on the 25th of Kislev and lasts eight days, but that date can fall anywhere between late November and late December.
In 2026, the first night of Hanukkah lands early in December, giving Jewish families the opportunity to celebrate the Festival of Lights well before Christmas and New Year festivities begin.
The Historical Origin of Hanukkah
Hanukkah, also spelled Chanukah, celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem around 165 BCE. After a successful revolt led by Judah Maccabee and his followers, the Jewish people reclaimed the Temple from the Seleucid Greeks who had desecrated it.
When the Maccabees sought to purify and relight the Temple’s menorah, they found only one small jar of consecrated oil — enough to last a single day. However, the oil miraculously burned for eight days, allowing time to prepare a new supply.
That miracle inspired the annual celebration of Hanukkah. Each night of the holiday, Jews light candles to commemorate the light that endured against all odds — a powerful symbol of perseverance and faith.
The First Night: A Moment of Light and Renewal
The first night of Hanukkah 2026 will hold special significance because it marks both the beginning of Hanukkah and the onset of Shabbat. Families observing both will integrate the two ceremonies carefully.
Traditionally, the Hanukkah candles are lit before the Shabbat candles on Friday evening to ensure all rituals occur before the Sabbath begins. Once Shabbat starts, lighting flames is not permitted until Saturday evening after nightfall.
This creates a uniquely spiritual moment — combining two powerful traditions:
- Hanukkah’s light, symbolizing miracles and faith.
- Shabbat’s peace, symbolizing rest and divine connection.
Together, they set a tone of reflection and gratitude that carries through the rest of the holiday.
Hanukkah 2026 in the United States
Throughout the U.S., Hanukkah brings communities together through celebrations, religious services, and public menorah lightings.
On the first night of Hanukkah 2026, cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, and Washington D.C. are expected to host large outdoor candle lighting events. These ceremonies often feature live music, cultural performances, and blessings led by local rabbis.
For many American families, Hanukkah has become a time to honor tradition while also embracing modern customs — from festive decorations and songs to inclusive community gatherings.
Customs and Traditions for Hanukkah 2026
Hanukkah is rich in customs that blend faith, culture, and joy. Each carries deep historical and spiritual meaning:
1. Lighting the Menorah
The menorah, or hanukkiah, is the central symbol of Hanukkah. On the first night, one candle is lit, using the helper candle (the shamash). Each subsequent night, an additional candle is added until all eight are burning brightly.
2. Reciting Blessings and Singing Songs
The first candle lighting includes three blessings, giving thanks for the miracle of Hanukkah and for the opportunity to celebrate. Families often follow with traditional songs such as Maoz Tzur (“Rock of Ages”).
3. Playing Dreidel
The dreidel, a four-sided spinning top, is a traditional Hanukkah game that dates back to ancient times when Jewish study was forbidden under Greek rule. The Hebrew letters on the dreidel stand for Nes Gadol Haya Sham — “A great miracle happened there.”
4. Enjoying Fried Foods
Fried foods are an essential part of Hanukkah meals, representing the miracle of the oil. Classic dishes include latkes (crispy potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts).
5. Giving Gifts and Charity
While the gift-giving tradition is modern, many families enjoy exchanging small presents or coins (gelt) each night. Others use the holiday to focus on tzedakah, or charitable giving, helping those in need.
Preparing for the First Night of Hanukkah 2026
Planning ahead ensures that the first night of Hanukkah is both meaningful and smooth. With the holiday starting on Friday, December 4, families will want to be ready before sundown.
Here’s a quick guide to preparing for the celebration:
- Gather candles: You’ll need 44 candles to cover all eight nights, including the shamash each night.
- Polish or arrange your menorah: Many people clean their menorah before the first lighting as a sign of respect.
- Plan the first meal: Since it coincides with Shabbat, the evening’s menu may include traditional challah, roasted meats, and latkes.
- Decorate your home: Hanukkah-themed decorations, banners, and window menorahs add festive spirit.
- Invite guests or join community events: Many Jewish centers and synagogues host public candle lightings open to all.
These steps help set the tone for a week of light, joy, and connection.
The Broader Meaning of Hanukkah’s Light
Beyond its ancient story, Hanukkah carries universal themes that resonate today — perseverance, gratitude, and hope. The light of the menorah stands as a symbol of moral clarity, guiding individuals and families through darkness, both literal and figurative.
The first candle on December 4, 2026, will remind people around the world that even a small act of faith can bring illumination. In a time when the world faces challenges and divisions, the message of Hanukkah — that light always prevails — feels more relevant than ever.
Hanukkah and the American Holiday Season
In the United States, Hanukkah often coincides with the broader holiday season. Though distinct from Christmas, both holidays emphasize values of kindness, family, and giving.
This overlap allows interfaith families to celebrate side by side, sharing traditions while honoring each faith’s unique history. Many public events in December include menorah lightings alongside winter festivals, symbolizing unity in diversity.
The first night of Hanukkah 2026, coming early in December, will kick off a festive season filled with shared joy, cultural pride, and reflection.
A Modern Celebration of an Ancient Miracle
Over time, Hanukkah has evolved from a purely religious observance into a celebration that blends history, culture, and community. While the menorah lighting remains central, modern families often incorporate creative elements like music, games, and themed gatherings.
Still, the essence of the holiday remains unchanged — a celebration of freedom, faith, and the enduring light that connects generations.
The first night of Hanukkah 2026 begins at sundown on Friday, December 4, marking the start of eight nights of faith, joy, and remembrance. As families gather to light the first candle, the glow of Hanukkah will once again illuminate hearts and homes around the world.
May this season of light bring peace, warmth, and inspiration to everyone celebrating across the United States.