How many days until Hanukkah?
About Hanukkah
Hanukkah (חֲנֻכָּה), also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the 2nd century BCE. According to tradition, when the Maccabees reclaimed the Temple, they found only enough consecrated oil to fuel the menorah for one day, but it miraculously lasted for eight days.
Each night of Hanukkah, an additional candle is lit on the menorah (hanukkiah), moving from right to left. Traditional foods include sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) and latkes (potato pancakes), both fried in oil to commemorate the miracle. Other traditions include playing dreidel and giving Hanukkah gelt (chocolate coins) to children.
While you wait for the first candle, you can work through a simple get-ready list so the nights themselves stay calmer.
When is Hanukkah?
Hanukkah 2026
Friday, December 4, 2026
Hanukkah 2027
Friday, December 24, 2027
Hanukkah 2026 — first candle evening, eight nights, and dates for other years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Hanukkah last eight days?
Hanukkah lasts eight days to commemorate the miracle of the oil: when the Maccabees rededicated the Second Temple, one day's supply of consecrated oil burned for eight days.
What is a menorah?
A Hanukkah menorah (hanukkiah) has nine branches — eight for each night of Hanukkah plus a shamash (helper candle) used to light the others. One additional candle is lit each night.
How many days until Hanukkah?
There are 51 days until Hanukkah (Friday, December 4, 2026).
More holiday countdowns
All holiday countdowns
About the Data
Holiday dates are calculated using established algorithms and verified against official sources. Variable-date holidays (like Easter and Ramadan) use astronomical or tabular formulas. For religious observance, always confirm with your local authority. Read our full methodology.