Hanukkah

Arts

Hungry, cold and alone, a woman's life changed from a kind stranger's invitation

5:00am December 25, 2024

Many years ago, Karleen was physically attacked by her then-boyfriend. Terrified, she left their condo, sat down on the curb, and began to cry. Then, a kind stranger invited her to Hanukkah.

The fun — and confusion — of celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah on the same date

7:00am December 23, 2024

Christmas and Hanukkah rarely fall on the same date, but this year they do. One mixed-faith family in Oakland, Calif., doubles down for double whammy holiday.

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Two festive latkes sit next to a mini-tropical umbrella

At Latkepalooza, a friendly competition precedes Hanukkah

7:00am December 23, 2024

by Abe Levine

Hanukkah officially begins on December 25 at nightfall. But Jewish families are already getting together to celebrate.

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Interfaith families find meaning in 'Chrismukkah'

4:52am December 23, 2024

This year the first night of Hanukkah falls on Christmas Day. Here's how some interfaith families are preparing to celebrate both holidays.

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National

Millions face wintry weather for what could be a record-setting holiday travel season

3:04pm December 22, 2024

More than 119 million people are expected to travel for Christmas and Hanukkah, which both fall on the same day this year, through the New Year, according to AAA.

Here are the deadlines for mailing your holiday gifts to ensure they arrive on time

5:00am December 13, 2024

Mail carriers and shipping companies will be closed on Christmas Day.

If you find yourself in Hanukkah withdrawal, take Round and Round for a spin: This time-loop romance embraces the holiday in a way that feels complete and thoughtful. Above, Paula Shaw and Vic Michaelis in Round and Round.

One last Hanukkah gift from Hallmark: 'Round and Round' is a really fun romcom

12:13pm December 15, 2023

by Linda Holmes

If you find yourself in Hanukkah withdrawal, take Round and Round for a spin: This time-loop romance embraces the holiday in a way that feels complete and thoughtful.

Skiers participate in last year's "Santa Sunday" event at the Sunday River resort in Newry, Maine.

Unique ways Americans celebrate the holidays, from skiing Santas to Festivus feats

9:43am December 08, 2023

by Rachel Treisman

Here's how communities across the U.S. put their own spin on Christmas, Hanukkah and even Festivus celebrations — from Santas who ski and surf, to trees made of tumbleweed, sand and lobster traps.

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Gelt are chocolate coins traditionally given out during Hanukkah. NuRoots, the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles' young adult initiative, has baskets of gelt to hand out at its events.

Hanukkah celebrations inspire Jewish joy despite war and increasing antisemitism

5:34am December 08, 2023

by Jason DeRose

The war between Israel and Hamas, as well as a rise in antisemitism, has many Jews unsure how to celebrate Hanukkah this year. Some say they're focusing on hope and hospitality in dark times.

Second gentleman Doug Emhoff speaks during the Annual National Menorah Lighting at the White House on Dec. 7, 2023.

Emhoff says 3 college presidents showed a 'lack of moral clarity' on antisemitism

6:36pm December 07, 2023

by NPR Staff

Doug Emhoff, the husband of Vice President Harris, is the highest-level official to criticize the presidents of Harvard, MIT and the University of Pennsylvania for their testimony this week.