Hanukkah Activities for Kids: Ideas for All Eight Nights
Hanukkah lasts eight nights, which gives families a chance to plan something small for each evening after the candles are lit instead of one big event. Activities do not need to be elaborate: a dreidel tournament, a simple craft, baking or frying latkes together, a family story night, or a printable game can each fill an evening. Mixing quiet and active ideas helps with different ages and energy levels, and choosing one night for giving to others is a tradition many families enjoy. A printable Hanukkah games pack gives you ready-made activities for nights when you want something easy and screen-free.
Practical tips
- Make a simple plan with one small activity for each of the eight nights.
- Teach younger kids the dreidel letters and rules on the first night so they can play all week.
- Pick a night for a kitchen activity like latkes or sufganiyot with adult help for frying.
- Include one giving-focused night, such as donating toys or making cards for family.
- Keep printable games on hand for evenings when you are short on time.
- Let kids take turns choosing the activity for a night.
Frequently asked questions
When is Hanukkah in 2026?
Hanukkah 2026 begins at sundown on Friday, December 4 and ends at nightfall on Saturday, December 12.
What are easy Hanukkah activities for preschoolers?
Short games like dreidel with simple rules, coloring pages, matching games and helping set out the candles with an adult are good fits.
Do Hanukkah activities need to be religious?
Families vary. Many mix traditional activities like candle lighting and dreidel with general crafts, games and time together.