December Blog Challenge Day 27. Do you know anyone who celebrates Hanukkah? What are five facts you didn't know about this holiday?

Day 27. Do you know anyone who celebrates Hanukkah? What are five facts you didn't know about this holiday?

I'm not sure if I know anyone who celebrates Hanukkah.

1. Hanukkah celebrates the victory of the Maccabees or Israelites over the Greek-Syrian ruler, Antiochus about 2200 years ago.
2. During Hanukkah, families eat latkes(potato pancakes) and sufganiot (jelly donuts), or other foods which are fried in oil, to celebrate and commemorate the miracle of the Festival of Lights.
3. Traditionally, Hanukkah is a time when children are encouraged and rewarded for their Torah studies. Consequently, it became fashionable to give the children Hanukkah money and presents during the holiday.
4. Except in times of religious persecution, the menorah was placed outside the front door or, as is the custom today, displayed in the window of every Jewish home.
5. Hanukkah is celebrated in the home beginning on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev.

Facts about Hanukkah