The first night of Hanukkah 2010 will begin at sundown on December 1, which makes this year the earliest start to the yearly celebration in eight years.
The beginning of Hanukkah will signify the start of the Jewish Festival of Lights. The celebration will last 8 nights and was begun as a celebration of the victory of Jews over Syrian Greeks.
During Hanukkah, participants will light a candle each night of the eight nights in a menorah. The holiday, though significant, is not one of the most important to the Jewish faith. However, over the years it has gained popularity due to its close proximity and sometimes overlapping of the Christmas holiday.
In recent years the tradition of giving a gift each night of the celebration has taken hold. Many offer a small gift to their children each night throughout the holiday. Many use this as a time to celebrate families and the simple act of being together.
