The Maccabee victory over the Greek- Syrian soldiers would not have been possible without the support of the brave Jewish women. It is the tradition in parts of the Sephardic world that the seventh day of Hanukkah is reserved especially to celebrate the women and girls of the community. The women study Torah, bless their daughters, and enjoy cheese sambusak prepared for them by the men.

Did you know that the Hasmoneans minted the first Jewish coins in history?

Those ancient bronze coins have been reinvented as Chanukah Gelt, chocolate treats we eat during Chanukah. These mass-marketed Chanukah coins are beautifully molded and add a festive touch to the festivities. This year, you can get creative and have fun making your own gourmet chocolate gelt for your Chanukah celebration.

You and your family can pretend to be Maccabee warriors. Fight the Seleucids with homemade swords and shields.

It is traditional to celebrate the miracle of the cruse of oil by eating foods fried in olive oil. One of the most familiar Hanukkah foods is the latke, or potato pancake.

A hanukkiah is a candelabra that holds nine candles. With the right materials, you can make your own!