Traditional blessings over the Hanukkah candles Candles are added to the menorah from right to left (the way Hebrew is read), but kindled from left to right, with the newest candle lit first ...

The menorah at Temple Shir Tikva in Wayland can light itself and say its own blessings.

The menorah at Temple Shir Tikva in Wayland can light itself and say its own blessings.

The special menorah used for Hanukkah has eight branches, with a ninth place for the candle called shamash from which all others are lit.

It is celebrated among families and friends by singing songs, giving blessings, telling stories, playing games and eating special foods, but most importantly, it’s celebrated by lighting the candles ...

Send one (or more!) of these personalized "Happy Hanukkah" greetings to your loved ones this season to spread the warmth.

Menorah lighting on Penn Square unites community Reading's menorah was lighted in advance of the eight-day festival that begins Dec. 25.

The blessings can be chanted or recited, and they are an important part of lighting the menorah. The first is a blessing of the candles.

When his father finished blessings the candles on the first menorah, Shmulik and his parents went over to the second table, and little Shmulik recited the blessings from a prayer book.

The menorah-lighting ritual involves more than just putting flame to a wick: Jewish religious tradition involves reciting one of three Hebrew blessings, described below.

The event will feature speeches from dignitaries, the Menorah lighting with candle distribution and blessings, and lively traditional Horah dancing. Food will be provided after the Menorah lighting.