Christmas and Hanukkah share the spotlight this year

For those celebrating the holidays this December, 2024 brings a unique twist—Christmas and Hanukkah will overlap, lighting up the season with double the festivities and cheer.

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, begins at sundown on 24 December and runs through 1 January 2025. Meanwhile, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day fall right in the middle, on 24 and 25 December. This rare overlap means families celebrating both holidays will get to enjoy latkes and menorah lighting alongside Christmas stockings and decorated trees.

A season of light and joy

Both holidays share themes of light, hope, and community, making this year’s timing feel extra meaningful. Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of oil that burned for eight days, while Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is often seen as a time of giving and reflection.

With holiday traditions aligning, this year is the perfect opportunity to embrace the season’s diversity. Families might find themselves enjoying sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) after opening Christmas presents or exchanging Hanukkah gifts next to a sparkling Christmas tree.

Blending traditions

For interfaith families, this overlap offers a natural blend of customs and celebrations. It’s a chance to share traditions, from lighting candles on the menorah to singing carols, making the season even more inclusive.

Food also plays a central role in both holidays, so tables may feature everything from roast turkey and fruitcakes to brisket and latkes. And with both holidays emphasizing giving, many families are planning to support charities and community drives, doubling their efforts to spread kindness and goodwill.

More time for celebration

Since Hanukkah lasts for eight days, those celebrating both holidays get a bit of extra time to savor the season. Whether it’s gathering for meals, exchanging gifts, or reflecting on the year, the extended festivities mean there’s no need to rush through the celebrations.

A rare occurrence

While Christmas and Hanukkah don’t often coincide, it’s not unheard of. The Jewish calendar follows a lunar cycle, so Hanukkah’s start date shifts every year. This year’s overlap is a reminder that different traditions can come together beautifully, adding more sparkle to the season.

Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, or both, this year’s holiday season promises to be extra special—filled with light, love, and lots of good food!