During Hanukkah
10 Dec 2025
Wishing peace for all during Hanukkah
Hanukkah is the Jewish eight-day winter festival of lights, celebrated this year from Sunday 14 to Monday 22 December. Rooted in the Hebrew word for dedication, it marks the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem in the second century BCE and, commemorates the miracle of oil that burned for eight nights.
Each evening, families light candles on the menorah - adding one more each night until all eight glow brightly, with the shamash (master candle) used to kindle the others. The ritual is accompanied by special prayers, songs, and gatherings.
Food plays a central role too: dishes fried in oil, such as crisp potato latkes and doughnuts, symbolise the miracle of the oil. Children often receive small gifts or Hanukkah gelt (coins or chocolate).
Get involved!
All colleagues, students and the wider community are invited to take part in a public lighting of the menorah, with live music, hot chocolate and doughnuts.
- When: Tuesday 16 December, 6pm
- Where: Brunswick Park (outside Simon Building)
- No sign up necessary
More information
- If you are affected by the incident at Bondi Beach, there is wellbeing support availble for you. Our support services include: Health Hero - free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ; Supporting your mental health; Support from our Mental Health Support Team; Multifaith Chaplaincy Team.
- Our multifaith chaplains will be available over the Christmas period to offer support to colleagues and students of all faith or none. Get in touch here.
- Our chaplains also offer monthly drop-in sessions to discuss all things faith, life and spirituality. Check our multifaith pages for updates on the next one.