Fun and Fantastic Hanukkah Party

Hanukkah is an eight-day winter holiday that celebrates the miracle that occurred when lamp oil enough for only one day burned for eight days. Hanukkah also honors the victory of the Macabees and the rededication of the Jewish temple. If you're going to host a Hanukkah party this year, read on for some tips to make your party the best it can be.

Invitations

You can find Hanukkah themed invitations at most any well-stocked stationery store. Be sure to send your invitations out about two months or so in advance so guests will have a chance to RSVP. Knowing how many guests you're expecting will make planning your party a lot easier.

Decorations

When decorating your home, use the traditional color scheme of blue, silver and white. Balloons and streamers are always festive and appropriate ways to create a party atmosphere. Try some blue taper or votive candles in silver candleholders. One fun idea is to fill a glass bowl with blue-tinted water (use food coloring) and float silver candles on top. String some white and blue lights around your home for extra sparkle. For the table, go for a Hanukkah patterned tablecloth featuring the Star of David or a solid tablecloth in dark blue or silver.

Food

Nourish your party guests with traditional Hanukkah fare like beef brisket, fried potato latkes, and homemade jelly-filled doughnuts. For appetizers, most any delectable finger food will do. Try bacon-wrapped scallops, cheese puffs, sausage balls and fresh crudites with a variety of dipping sauces. Serve blue punch in a silver bowl, and provide a variety of red and white wines for guests who want to imbibe.

Games and Activities

You'll definitely want to play dreidel at your Hanukkah party. If you're unfamiliar with the game, here's how it works. A dreidel is a four sided top that has four symbols on it. They are: Nun, which means do nothing, Gimmel, which means take everything, Hey, which means take half the pot, and Shin, which means pay. You can use money, candy, or game pieces to play dreidel. Each player takes turns spinning the dreidel and following the instructions. The player who ends up with all the money (or whatever you're using) is the winner.

There are many other ways for your guests to have fun. Try some traditional card games or even board games. For kids, create or purchase a Hanukkah themed pinata and let them take turns trying to crack it open. Kids also love Hanukkah coloring pages and word searches, which will keep them busy while the adults socialize.

Tips for Clean-Up

For quick and easy cleaning, use plastic plates and cups. Provide trash receptacles that are easily accessible for guests to prevent clutter. If some of your guests offer to stay and help you clean up, let them. A few helping hands can make your Hanukkah party clean up fast and easy!