As we approach the holiday season, it’s important to remember the diversity that surrounds us. One celebration that many may not be familiar with is Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights. This Jewish holiday commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and celebrates the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days. To help introduce children to the traditions and significance of Hanukkah, we’ve put together this collection of printable poems.
The Hanukkah Story
Hanukkah is a special time of year For Jews everywhere, spreading holiday cheer. It all began in ancient times When the Holy Temple was in decline. Jews from around came to pray, But when they arrived, they found dismay. The Temple was defiled, and worse still, There wasn’t enough oil to light the menorah, a big thrill. But something miraculous happened, you see The oil lasted for eight days, enough for a huge party, And thus Hanukkah was born, to celebrate With family, friends, and tales to relate. The holiday is eight nights long, Each night a candle on the menorah we light with song. The dreidel is spun, and gelt exchanged, Children’s eyes aglow, excitedly engaged. Latkes are eaten, a tasty treat, Potato pancakes, crispy and sweet. Sufganiyot, too, a fried dough delight, Filled with jelly, chocolate or cream, oh so bright. The Hanukkah story, one of triumph and hope, Celebrating miracles and a divine scope. It’s a time of joy, family, and love, A chance to reflect and thank the powers above.
Lighting the Menorah
The menorah is a central symbol of Hanukkah, A nine-branched candelabrum loved by everyone, yah! One candle is lit each night of the holiday, Adding to the glow, making the darkness go away. The shamash, or helper candle, is used to kindle the others, A reminder to us all to be selfless, caring sisters and brothers. The menorah should be put in a window or doorway, To spread the message of faith and hope, day after day. As we light the candles, we say a special prayer, Honoring the traditions that we all love to share. We thank the Almighty for the miracles we’ve seen, For giving us strength and joy, and a reason to beam. So let’s light the menorah, let’s spread the light, And share the story of Hanukkah, so bright.
The Dreidel Game
The dreidel is a four-sided spinning top, A part of Hanukkah that will never stop. Each side has a letter, one of four Nun, gimel, hay, or shin, oh, what a score! We gather with friends and family, lots of fun on display, And spin the dreidel, cheering all the way. If you land on a nun, do nothing this play, Gimel means take it all, wow, what a day! If you land on hay, you get to keep half, But if you spin a shin, empty-handed, sort of a gaffe. We play with chocolate coins, a yummy delight, Making Hanukkah festivities quite a sight. The dreidel, a symbol of the bravery of old, The Maccabees who stood up, to be ever so bold. It’s a reminder of our history, of the battles we’ve won, A time to come together and have some great fun.
The Delicious Treats of Hanukkah
Food is an essential part of every holiday, And Hanukkah is no exception, we say. Latkes and sufganiyot, are among the treats That make our taste buds, head over heels for eats. Latkes are made from grated potatoes, onion, and egg, Mixed together, and fried up, crisp and oh so leg. Served with applesauce or sour cream, a delectable view, Latkes are a Hanukkah tradition, through and through. Sufganiyot are deep-fried doughnuts, oh boy! Filled with jelly, or cream, bringing happiness and joy. Dusted with powdered sugar, a scrumptious delight, Sufganiyot are fun to eat, deep into the night. Hanukkah gelt, a fun treat for all, Chocolate coins, in gold and silver, standing tall. Given to children to play the dreidel game, An added bonus to a holiday that’s never lame. Food is a way to bring together, Family and friends, no matter how far. Hanukkah is about celebrating, with those we hold dear, A time to reflect and be grateful, year after year.
Hanukkah is a beautiful holiday, Filled with traditions, and joy on display. It’s a time to reflect, to be thankful, and to share, To remember our history, and to show we care. These printable poems are a great way to teach, Children about Hanukkah, filling their minds with a peach. Let’s spread the word, and come together as one To celebrate this wonderful holiday, for everyone.
