Though these words may not make much sense at first, Thanksgivukkah and Menurkies are actually two of the biggest miracles of the holiday season! Whether you celebrate Hannukah, Thanksgiving, or both, this week is very special. Thanksgiving and the first night of Hannukah will occur on the same day this year, and this truly a rare, once-in-a-lifetime series of events.
Here at Kids at Art, we created these Menurkies so we can celebrate Hannukah and Thanksgiving with a fun and festive piece that reminds us of all that we are thankful for! Each night of Hannukah, we will light another candle on our turkey Menorah and say a prayer that expresses our gratitude and appreciation. Though Hannukah and Thanksgiving honor different purposes, they actually have a lot in common.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that honors the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, and during this time, the Jews celebrate and are thankful for the triumph of light over darkness, which we consider a true miracle. We eat potato latkes, light menorahs, and spend time with family in order to reflect, love, and appreciate one another.
Thanksgiving is a national holiday in which Americans give thanks for the blessing of the harvest and of the preceding year. To celebrate this holiday, we eat more delicious foods and talk to our family and friends about what we are most thankful for. It is a great way to end the year on the right foot, so we keep the years’ happiness and accomplishments in our hearts when thinking of our resolutions for the upcoming new year.
In a way, Hannukah and Thanksgiving are similar because they are about being thankful and showing our appreciation for resources that we have been given, as well as the love of our families, friends, and flourishing lives.
Though Hannukah lasts 8 days and Thanksgiving typically lasts one (though the leftovers can make it seem a lot longer!), why not take the opportunity to reflect and give thanks all season long?