When Is Hanukkah?

Hanukkah 2026 begins at sundown on Friday, December 4, 2026 and ends the evening of Saturday, December 12.

Days and sleeps left

Hanukkah dates

How the date works

• Hanukkah starts on the 25th of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar and lasts eight nights. Jewish days begin at sundown, so the festival starts the evening before the first date shown on many calendars.
• Because the Hebrew calendar is lunisolar, the Gregorian date moves each year, anywhere from late November to late December.
• One candle is lit on the first night, plus the shamash (helper candle), and one more each night until eight are lit.
• Exact lighting times depend on your location. Check a local Jewish calendar or synagogue listing.

FAQ

When does Hanukkah start in 2026?

At sundown on Friday, December 4, 2026. It ends at nightfall on Saturday, December 12.

When does Hanukkah start in 2027?

At sundown on Friday, December 24, 2027, the same evening as Christmas Eve.

How long is Hanukkah?

Eight nights and days.

Why does the date change every year?

It follows the Hebrew lunisolar calendar, starting on the 25th of Kislev, so the Gregorian date moves.

Why does Hanukkah begin in the evening?

In the Jewish calendar each day starts at sundown, so the first candle is lit on the evening before the first full day.

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