Holiday Guide: Hanukkah 2012 in Santee

This year, Hanukkah begins on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 8, and ends a week later on Sunday, Dec. 16.

According to Chabad.org, Hanukkah starts on the Hebrew calendar date of 25 Kislev and lasts for eight days. For those of us who aren't attuned to the Jewish calendar, that translates to sundown on Saturday, Dec. 8. 

In Santee, the closest temples are Chabad East County and Tifareth Israel Synogogue San Carlos.

Chabad East County
8361 Beaver Lake Dr, San Diego
619-387-8770 or email info@JewishEC.com for more information.

Chabad East County will hold a Chanukah Shabbat Dinner on Friday, Dec. 14 at 6:30 p.m. RSVP by December 10th. Adult $21 - Child $15. Family pricing available

Chabad East County will also hold a public menorah lighting at Grossmont Center on Sunday, Dec. 9 at 4 p.m. The lighting will take place adjacent to the Bath and Body Works.

Tifareth Israel Synagogue
6660 Cowles Mountain Boulevard, San Diego
(619) 697-6001
Calendar of events for Tifareth

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the story of the Maccabean Revolt against Syrian rulers in present day Israel 2,300 years ago. The Maccabees wanted to rededicate Jerusalem's main temple but had only enough oil to kindle the Eternal Light for one day. The oil lasted for eight days, according to the story, and the holiday of Hanukkah was born.

Today, Jews generally celebrate by gathering together with family, lighting one candle on the menorah each of the eight nights, playing dreidel and eating special holiday foods such as potato latkes and babka.

TELL US: If you observe Hanukkah, what are your plans?