Tips on Throwing a Hanukkah Party

Hanukkah is an eight-day holiday celebration that celebrates the victory of the Macabees, the rededication of the Jerusalem temple, and the miracle of a one-day supply of oil that burned for eight days. Families and friends gather during this time to eat, exchange gifts, recite blessings, and of course, light the menorah!

If you're going to be hosting a Hanukkah party this year, here are some tips to make things run smoothly!

Decor is crucial for any great Hanukkah celebration. Deck your home out in the traditional colors of blue, silver and white. In addition to the traditional menorah, get a Hanukkah bush from a tree lot, nursery, or even the forest. Decorate your bush with lights in the traditional colors, and top with a large silver Star of David. Adorn your mantle and tabletops with Hanukkah themed items like the dreidel or chocolate gelt.

Print copies of traditional Hanukkah blessings to give to all your guests as they enter. It is customary to say a blessing before lighting a candle on the menorah. Even if you know the blessings by heart, some of your guests may not, and by printing them out, everyone can recite them without difficulty.

When it comes to the menu for your Hanukkah party, foods fried in oil are the traditional choice. Potato latkes are always a perfect entree. Try pairing them with sour cream and applesauce. Appetizers are always a good idea for any party. Why not make homemade fried won tons? You can purchase won ton wrappers at the supermarket and stuff them with your favorite fillings like cream cheese and crab.

Gift giving is a traditional event at any Hanukkah party. Try inexpensive yet heartfelt gifts. One good option is to ask everyone at the party to make their own gifts. If making gifts isn't your thing, you can never go wrong with items like books, CDs, chocolates, and gift certificates.

When it comes to games and activities, the dreidel game is a must! For those who don't know, a dreidel is a four sided top that is used in a betting game. Try betting with coins, or you can use food items like nuts or candies. On each side of the dreidel are Hebrew letters that stand for a different action. Nun means do nothing, he means you get half the kitty, gimel means you get the whole kitty, and shin means you lose.

Start planning your Hanukkah party early. Send out invitations at least a month in advance, to make sure all guests have a chance to RSVP. With some planning, you can host the perfect Hanukkah party that everyone will remember for years to come!