What to know about the Jewish holiday this year

On December 25, 2024By Littum

The holiday is extra special this year. Not only is December 25th Christmas, but that marks the beginning of Hanukkah.

This particular holiday adaptation is rare. In fact, it’s only happened four other times since 1900, according to USA Today.

Here’s what you need to know:

When is Hanukkah 2024?

Starting at sunset on Wednesday, December 25, Hanukkah is celebrated until Thursday, January 2, 2025, according to Chabad.org.

How is Hanukkah celebrated?

Hanukkah, which takes place in the winter, is an eight-day festival of lights celebrated with nightly menorah lightings, special prayers and fried foods, according to Chabad.org.

A candle is lit each night on the menorah, which is placed in a doorway or window, each night until all candles are lit on the eighth night. Special blessings are recited before the lighting and traditional songs are sung afterwards.

The ninth flame on the menorah is called the shamash, which is often placed higher or lower and is used to light the other candles.

How do you pronounce Hanukkah?

The word is pronounced kha-nu-kah, according to Chabad-Lubavitch of Wisconsin.

When is Hanukkah 2025?

In 2025, Hanukkah begins on Sunday, December 14 and lasts until Monday, December 22 according to Chabad.org.

Why do the dates of Hanukkah change?

According to Reader’s DigestHanukkah can begin as early as November 28 or as late as December 27 depending on the year.

The holiday seems to change dates annually as it is based on Hebrew calendarwhich is one lunisolar calendar.

How often does Hanukkah fall on Christmas?

Hanukkah falls on Christmas—sometimes called “Christmukkah”—rarely occurs. Christmas and the first day of Hanukkah have occurred simultaneously four times since 1900, according to Hebcala Hebrew calendar tracking site. The next time it happens is in 2035.

USA Today reporters James Powel and Deena Yellin contributed to this report.