How to Personalize a Gift for Hanukkah

During the season of Hanukkah, it’s common to exchange a few gifts although the volume of gift giving is not as great as during the Christmas season. Sometimes called “the Jewish Christmas”, which it is not, Hanukkah celebrates a victory by ancient Jews over Syrian forces in 165 B.C. When the Temple in Jerusalem was rededicated to God after being in Syrian hands, there was just enough oil to burn for a single day so that the Temple could be again holy. Through a miracle, the oil burned for eight days which is why Hanukkah is celebrated for eight nights during the Hebrew month of Kislev. Called the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah often falls in December. Many Jewish families do exchange gifts, however, with relatives and friends. Anyone can design a Hannukah gift basket that can be a unique and attractive gift. It’s simple.

Begin by buying a basket. This can be any size available from small to large. Baskets can be found in craft supply stores, many discount and department stores, and in many other specialty shops. Remember that the basket is to be filled with gifts so avoid purchasing a basket larger than needed to hold gift items.

Consider dressing up the basic basket with a few festive ribbons. Line the basket either with colored tissue paper or fabric. Place mats, napkins, or other cloth items can make an attractive lining and also be a useful gift.

The next step is to consider what to include in the basket. Non-Jewish individuals who want to create a Hanukkah gift basket for a Jewish friend will need to remember that any food items included need to be kosher. These can be bought in many places including numerous supermarkets, ethnic markets, and kosher shops. Kosher products are marked as such and are easy to identify. When in doubt, ask clerks for assistance.

Kosher foods that would make a great addition to any gift basket include smoked salmon, venus crackers, dried fruit, cocoa, Monica cookies, butter cookies, olives, nuts, cappachino, and wine. Don’t forget to include the traditional and ever popular Chocolate Gelt – gold wrapped chocolate coins. Although gelt is popular among children, all ages enjoy the rich, sweet taste of chocolate.

Other items that would be welcome additions to a gift basket include Star of David pendant necklaces, Dead Sea Cosmetics, menorahs, mezuzahs, a Jewish calendar, items imported from Israel, Star of David candles, and dreidls, small tops traditonal to the Hanukkah season.

Books of interest to the recipent are another option, especially religious books. Any gift that would be appropriate on any occasion such as a birthday is ideal for inclusion in a Hanukkah gift basket.

Use imagination to create a one-of-a-kind Hanukkah gift basket to share this holiday season.