Culture & heritage · 7 picks · Updated
Eight nights, a dozen relatives and at least one debate about applesauce versus sour cream (both, obviously). Whether you're stocking gelt for the cousins, finally upgrading the menorah that's been on the windowsill since 1987, or hosting your first Hanukkah, these picks bring the warmth. And yes, the Christmas Day Chinese-food reservation is already booked.
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A sleek geometric menorah for a windowsill that deserves an upgrade from the clay one you made in 2nd grade. (Keep that one too.)
Real-life use: Lighting candles all eight nights; fits standard Hanukkah candles.
Check price on AmazonExtra-large hand-painted dreidels, so the game can get properly competitive.
Real-life use: Dreidel tournaments with the kids for gelt, then display them on the table.
Check price on AmazonSeventy chocolate coins: enough for the dreidel games, the cousins and the adults sneaking them from the bowl.
Real-life use: Dreidel stakes, party favors and stocking every candy dish in the house.
Check price on AmazonA beautiful board that turns Friday night challah into the centerpiece it deserves to be.
Real-life use: Shabbat dinners, holiday tables and serving bread at any gathering.
Check price on AmazonLeah Koenig's huge collection of Jewish recipes from around the world, so Bubbe's brisket finally has some competition. (It won't win.)
Real-life use: Holiday menus from Hanukkah to Passover plus everyday cooking.
Check price on AmazonGrating potatoes for latkes is a family tradition. So is the tiny knuckle injury. This sturdy grater helps with one of them.
Real-life use: Shredding potatoes and onions for latkes; the container catches the shreds.
Check price on AmazonA whole Hanukkah in one box, for the friend who's hosting for the first time and panicking quietly.
Real-life use: Menorah, candles, dreidels and gelt, ready for night one.
Check price on AmazonPairs well with
Light it, spin it, snack on it.
Pairs well with
The book, the grater, and a board for the challah.
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