I know everyone is getting into the holiday spirit this time of year, but I’ve never been one who becomes attached to celebrating the season. Partially, this is due to not celebrating Christmas – and though everyone seems to think Chanukkah is an equal replacement, it’s actually a pretty minor holiday. Though we used to hang some blue and white decor as kids, my family hasn’t done much of that in years.
Still, holiday fun is a bit contagious. I won’t be playing tunes or hanging garlands anytime soon, but I thought I’d do a little modern take on Chanukkah this year, as the first candles will be lit this Friday.
A total of 44 candles should be lit over the course of the eight nights, but as I am currently without a menorah, I’ll be making do with a smaller amount.
Gelt typically comes packaged as milk chocolate coins, but I always stick with the real stuff.
Traditional latkes would be made with potatoes; I’m scheming a sweet potato and beet version [recipe to come if all goes well].
Presents are given and received; mine will all be wrapped in pages from a magazine. I’m moving, and things like wrapping paper aren’t making the cut. Plus, I’m recycling!
Dairy is often part of the meal, but of course, there is only one type of dairy that really matters to me.
Fried foods, such as doughnuts, are a common treat; this year, I’ve got raw doughnut holes.
Are you a traditionalist when it comes to your holiday, or do you make it modern?
Related posts:
We’re pretty traditional around here, but I think that everyone’s holiday celebration is different based on the fact that all families are different :)
FINALLY, a Channukah post :)
Not only did this post make me smile from ear to ear, but it inspired me to spruce up my holiday menu this year.
You’re a rockstar.
bec xo
Totally random, but you CAN get dark chocolate “gelt.” ;)
<3 <3
I think Chanukkah is such an awesome holiday though! I love the candle lighting and all. :D Happy Holidays!
i like both traditional and personalized, more modern recipes — the roomie and i are meeting half-way and making both sweet potato and regular latkes. and no donuts ’cause we don’t like ‘em. this is a lovely post, by the way — sometimes i feel a bit left out of the holiday cheer because i’ve never celebrated christmas before. yay hanukkah! :)
loved this post Leslie :) !
i am Jewish as well, we are not that religious, or traditional etc, except for Hanukkah, we always light the candle each night and give out a present, and when we go to my families house we always have a pretty traditional dinner, latka’s, brisket(not for me) lol…kugel etc…love Hanukkah, the lights, candles! so many memories! :) i think this year, i am going to make some special versions of my fav traditional Hanukkah foods!
love you
xx
Eliza
We have family traditions that stay the same over the years, but I’m trying to healthify some of the standard foods by making simple modifications (ie, substituting applesauce for butter).
I love latkes and applesauce, though, and it’s one of our favorite holiday foods. My grandmother is German and apparently there’s a German food that is basically latkes (potato pancake), so I guess that’s why we eat it! ;)
Love this post–One side of my family is Jewish, but isn’t very religious. Still, I have such an interest for ALL religions that I’ve always enjoyed Chanukkah traditions as well. Gelt–haha, its the most UNchocolate substance you could consume, right?
I think the lighting of the menorah is beautiful. I hope you enjoy each night + celebrate the light!
Random, I know but– I used to LOVE the Rugrat’s (Nickolodeon cartoon) Chanukkah and Passover specials. Wish they still played them.
Your rendition of the typical holiday fare is going to be spectacular!
Glad you’re finding a way to enjoy the season in a new way and incorporating your preferences! I’m definitely a traditionalist when it comes to music and holiday themed parties, but I’m always up for a change now and then :)
I love your modern twist on a traditional holiday. Can’t wait to see the latkes (spelling?)
I’m pretty laid back about holiday celebration. My family and I never do intense Christmas decorating. But we are very into singing Christmas carols and going to church on the 24th.