These fun and festive menorahs from Amazon are adding some extra twinkle to your Hanukkah celebrations this year
Hanukkah 2022 starts a little bit later—December 18th to be exact—but it’ll be here before we know it. And no Festival of Lights is complete without a menorah. We’ve found some fantastic menorahs—where else?—on Amazon to light up your celebration.
Quick brush up on your Hanukkah history:
How well do you know your Hanukkah history? Let’s get a little refresher out of the way.
Firstly, the word menorah means “lamp” in Hebrew. The ancient menorah had seven branches, and was an “everlasting light”, an oil lamp meant to never go out in the temple in the area that was known as Judea. At the time—167 B.C.E.—the small area of then-Judea was caught in conflict. The Egyption Empire and the Greek-Assyrian Empire clashed and Greek king Antiochus outlawed all Jewish practices. The observance of the Sabbath, keeping kosher were eliminated and the temple where the menorah burned was desecrated.
A small group of Jewish rebels, known as the Maccabees, were able to take back the temple over the course of several years. The menorah was relit. As the story goes, despite having only a single day’s worth of oil, the menorah miraculously lasted for eight days. Accordingly, the modern-day menorah has nine candles: one for each of those eight days and one to light the rest. Hanukkah marks the rededication of the desecrated temple of Judea when it was taken back by the Maccabees
So, now that you know why the menorah is such an important element of Hanukkah, we can get to the roundup of some of our favorite ones. These menorahs are not only unique, fun, pretty, and festive, but can be found on Amazon because we love convenience. They’re a great option for keeping with tradition while at the same time, creating a holiday aesthetic that’s perfect for your own vibes. So get ready for eight nights of celebration with our menorahs from Amazon roundup!
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Light the lights, spin the dreidel, eat some latkes—and read a book! There’s no better way to tell the story of Hanukkah than by, well, telling a story. Lucky for your littles, there are plenty of new books on the market to bring the festival of lights to life in their imaginations. From The Rugrats and Pout-Pout Fish to a book that actually becomes a menorah itself, here are our picks for our favorite Hanukkah books for kids.
This isn't really a book; it's a decoration! This colorful board book contains all the pieces to make a decorative foldout menorah, perfect for spaces where you don't want kids lighting up (I.e. in their rooms, at school, etc.). Kids will love popping out the pieces, putting them together and adding the candles each night.
An adorable board book for toddlers that uses sweet, rhyming text and the hallmarks of Hanukkah (latkes, jelly donuts, menorahs) to celebrate the love between parent and child. Includes page cutouts and raised elements to captivate little readers.
A Rugrats Chanukah: The Classic Illustrated Storybook, by Kim Smith
Millennial parents will love introducing their kids to this infamous '90s-era baby crew, who learn—after a series of misunderstandings about the ‘meany of Hanukkah’—the real meaning of the holiday.
This story about a Jewish family preparing for Hanukkah gives readers a glimpse of immigrant families living on the lower East Side of New York in 1912. When the youngest daughter Gertie isn't allowed to help prepare the meal, she throws a tantrum, but once her father comes home, she's finally allowed to a part of the holiday tradition—lighting the first candle on the menorah!
An alligator with a food truck sets out to find some fresh new flavors for his Hanukkah latkes in this rhyming story that centers around tradition, cooking and friendship. If peach or turnips aren’t your kids’ thing, the included recipe for rainbow latkes will hit the spot.
This classic Hanukkah book follows the journey of Hershel, a traveler who makes his way into a village on the first night of Hanukkah. Expecting to see warm lights and latkes, instead, he finds that a band of goblins has taken over, and not a single candle is lit. Using only his wits, Hershel tricks the goblins night after night, but will it be enough to save Hanukkah?
“In the small blue room, there was a bubbala”…and a mishpacha (Jewish family), and a kiss on the keppelah (head)—and a host of other Yiddish phrases that match the rhythm and tone of Margaret Wise Brown’s classic bedtime tale. This simple parody pays homage to Jewish culture and values and will amuse the bubbies (grandmothers) maybe more than the bubbalas (darlings) themselves.
Pinky Blum and the Case of the Magical Menorah, by Judy Press
Looking for a Hanukkah-themed book that your independent readers can tackle on their own? This short chapter book follows kid detective Pinky Bloom as she takes on the case of an Israeli coin stolen from her synagogue. Strange events ensue—and Pinky solves the case with the help of her little brother.
Everyone’s favorite scaled grumpy face is back to light the lights (underwater!) in this sweet rhyming story that toddlers will love. Follow Pout-Pout Fish as he lights the menorah, spins the dreidel and celebrates Hanukkah with his fishy friends.
This picture book for older children loosely tells the true story of a community, that in 1993, stood up to bigotry. It follows Isaac, whose family is Jewish, and his best friend, Teresa, whose family is Christian, as they gear up for the holidays in their traditional ways. But when Isaac’s window is smashed in the middle of the night, the children bring the community together to stand up for what’s right.
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The holidays may be months away, but the Seattle Christmas Ship Festival will be here before you know it. Get tickets while you can
The Seattle Christmas Ship Festival is back in 2022! One of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions, if you can’t wait to experience this dose of holiday cheer, you’re in luck. Whether you want to catch a ride with St. Nick on the The Spirit of Seattle or want to listen to the choir, gathered ’round a bonfire at a local beach, there are tons of ways families can enjoy this Pacific Northwest tradition. Remember that this super popular event sells out quickly, as do reservations at local restaurants. So if you want to get in on the singing, Santa, lighted boat action, now is the time to do it.
Experience the Seattle Christmas Ship Festival
Ride the Christmas Ship Lead Boat
Every year Argosy Cruises pulls out all the stops with the spectacularly decorated Spirit of Seattle, the designated Christmas Ship that all the other boats follow. During the 90-minute cruise, a local choir sings at scheduled shore side locations (see schedule below) and Santa mingles with the kids and smiles for holiday pictures. While on board you can expect some holiday sing-alongs and a very special reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas with Santa. The boat has two fully enclosed, heated decks, one outside deck, restrooms and a cash bar. While cruisin’ the waters, you and your little elves can enjoy snacks, chowder and beverages available for purchase. Reserve online.
Cost: $54/Adult; $40/Kid (4–12); $50/Senior; Free, kids 3 & under; $72/person for Opening Night (Nov. 25) & Grande Finale (Dec. 23)
Follow the Christmas Ship Boat
Being on the Christmas Ship is quite a treat, but so is riding the Follow Boat that (you guessed it) follows the lead ship. Not only will you get fantastic photos of the Spirit of Seattle, but you’ll get many of the Christmas Ship perks, too. Fully enclosed with outside areas, restrooms and food and drink for purchase, the follow boat cruise is a bit longer and includes a broadcast of the choir aboard The Spirit of Seattle. So far the Follow Boat will run on two nights—
Good to Know: This year the Follow Boat is 21 and over. Maybe a great date night?
Because sitting down to dinner at a restaurant with a view is always in season, here’s a fun idea: check the sailing schedule below and pick a primo viewing location with nearby waterfront restaurants, like Lake Union, Alki, Redondo Beach or Leschi. Places like Duke’s, Anthony’s, Salty’s and Ivar’s Salmon House are all great options with covered outdoor seating and viewing decks, so you and the fam can feast your eyes on a panorama of glowing boats while also enjoying a fine meal.
Watch from the Shore at Local Beaches & Parks
Whether it’s your neighborhood beach park or a stunning downtown location like the Olympic Sculpture Park, when the Christmas Ships sail past it’s a truly spectacular sight. Many locations will have a bonfire going, which are noted below. Bundle up the kiddos, grab a thermos of hot cocoa and go! Times listed below detail when the parade will stop and broadcast choir performances over their state-of-the-art sound system. The full schedule includes sailing departure times, private events and bonfire details.
Friday, December 2: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (First Sailing) Choir: Master Chorus Eastside 5:35 p.m. Ferdinand State Park (bonfire)
Friday, December 2: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (Second Sailing) Choir: Master Chorus Eastside 8:10 p.m. Gene Coulon Memorial Park (bonfire)
Saturday, December 3: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (First Sailing) Choir: PrimeTime Quartet 2:35 p.m. Pritchard Island Beach (bonfire)
Saturday, December 3: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (Second Sailing) Choir: PrimeTime Quartet 5:35 p.m. Seward Park (bonfire) Sailing includes cookies with Santa
Saturday, December 3: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (Third Sailing) Choir: PrimeTime Quartet 8:40 p.m. Stan Sayers Memorial Park (bonfire)
Sunday, December 4: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (First Sailing) Choir: Peninsula Community Chorus 5:35 p.m. Mercer Shore Club (private)
Sunday, December 4: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington (Second Sailing) Choir: Peninsula Community Chorus 8:35 p.m. Mt. Baker Beach (bonfire)
Friday, December 9: Lake Union Park (First Sailing) Choir: PrimeTime Quartet 5:35 p.m. ASUW Shell House (bonfire)
Friday, December 9: Lake Union Park (Second Sailing/Parade of Boats) Choir: PrimeTime Quartet 8:20 p.m. Fremont Cut (rolling show/bonfire)
Saturday, December 10: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing) Choir: Puyallup HS Norselanders 2:10 p.m. Marina Park (1st performance/bonfire) 2:50 p.m. Magnuson Park (2nd performance/bonfire) Sailing includes cookies with Santa
Saturday, December 10: Kirkland City Dock (Second Sailing) Choir: Puyallup HS Norselanders 5:35 p.m. Juanita Beach Park (bonfire)
Saturday, December 10: Kirkland City Dock (Third Sailing) Choir: Puyallup HS Norselanders 5:35 p.m. Seattle Tennis Club (private)
Sunday, December 11: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing) Choir: The Dickens Carolers 5:35 p.m. Laurelhurst Beach Club (private)
Sunday, December 11: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing) Choir: The Dickens Carolers 8:35 p.m. Houghton Beach
Friday, December 16: Carillon Point Marina (First Sailing) Choir: Master Chorus Eastside 5:35 p.m. Madrona Park (bonfire)
Friday, December 16: Carillon Point Marina (Second Sailing) Choir: Master Chorus Eastside 8:35 p.m. Denny Blaine Park (bonfire)
Saturday, December 17: Carillon Point Marina (First Sailing) Choir: Vocal Vintage 2:35 p.m. Waverly Beach Park Sailing includes cookies with Santa
Saturday, December 17: Carillon Point Marina (Second Sailing) Choir: Vocal Vintage 5:35 p.m. Madison Park (bonfire)
Saturday, December 17: Carillon Point Marina (Third Sailing) Choir: Vocal Vintage 8:40 p.m. Meydenbauer Bay Park
Sunday, December 18: Carillon Point Marina (First Sailing) Choir: Touchstone Quartet 5:35 p.m. Windermere Park (private)
Sunday, December 18: Carillon Point Marina (Second Sailing) Choir: Touchstone Quartet 8:40 p.m. Luther Burbank Park
Monday, December 19: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing) Choir: Bellevue Youth Choir 5:35 p.m. OO Denny Park (bonfire)
Monday, December 19: Kirkland City Dock (Second Sailing) Choir: Master Chorus Eastside 8:40 p.m. Log Boom Park
Tuesday, December 20: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing) Choir: The Dickens Carolers 8:40 p.m. Lake Forest Park Civic Club (private)
Wednesday, December 21: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing) Choir: Holy Names Vocal Ensemble 5:35 p.m. Carillon Point (bonfire)
Wednesday, December 21: Kirkland City Dock (Second Sailing) Choir: The Dickens Carolers 8:40 p.m. Sheridan Beach Club (private)
Thursday, December 22: Kirkland City Dock (First Sailing) Choir: The Dickens Carolers 5:35 p.m. Medina Beach Park
Thursday, December 22: Kirkland City Dock (Second Sailing) Choir: The Dickens Carolers 8:35 p.m. Yarrow Point (bonfire)
Friday, December 23: Lake Union Park (First Sailing) Choir: The Dickens Carolers 2:40 p.m. The Ballard Locks (bonfire) Sailing includes cookies with Santa
Friday, December 23: Lake Union Park (Second Sailing) Choir: The Dickens Carolers 5:35 p.m. Ivar's Salmon House
Friday, December 23: Lake Union Park (Third Sailing) Choir: The Dickens Carolers 8:30 p.m. Seattle Yacht Club (1st performance/private) 9:10 p.m. Gas Works Park (2nd performance/bonfire)
Good to Know: Argosy Cruises donates a portion of all ticket sales to The Seattle Times’ Fund for Those in Need, an annual program that raises money for several charitable organizations in the Puget Sound area.
When it comes to pantry organization, there are few hard and fast rules to follow, like group like items together, clean out expired products regularly and place the most often used items within reach. But if you want to really level up your pantry storage and make it the most efficient space ever, you’ve got to try these storage hacks. It may just become your favorite area in the house!
Experts unanimously agree—if there is one pantry storage hack you must do to make your life better (and not just for aesthetics), it's to take everything you can out of the box, put it into clear jars or containers, and label them. The choice of container is up to you, whether you prefer glass canisters for a more farm-style look or a more modern, minimalistic take, but the real reason to do institute this change? As gross as it sounds, this is the best way to avoid bug infestations—you can easily see if there's a problem in your flour, sugar, oats or pancake mix without contaminating your whole pantry.
Pro Tip: Look for wide-mouth jars so the goods are easy to get and ones with lids that have a seal.
One of our favorite pantry organization hacks of all time is adding a lazy Susan (or two or three) to pantry shelves. Not only does this little spinner save space, but bottles also won't get lost in the back corner, and the handy handles make carrying it in and out of the pantry easy peasy.
Organizing pantry storage starts with pulling everything out, throwing out expired products, donating any non-perishables you know you aren't going to use and wiping down the shelves. But before you put everything back (in an organized manner, of course), why not add a cheerful wallpaper to the walls? What is typically a dark, uninviting space is now fun, bright and welcoming.
While this wallpaper is out of stock, we love these peel and stick options from Etsy.
Sometimes, not even a bright colorful wallpaper can help a dark space. If that's the case, you can easily install lighting (no electrician required!) with motion-sensor, battery-operated LED lights that will brighten all those shadowy corners in less than ten minutes.
File this under "Brilliant." These wire magazine holders have been reimagined as produce containers! The wire frame allows sufficient airflow to keep veggies from rotting, and the depth of the magazine racks was designed to fit on shelves.
For larger items that are hard to contain (we're looking at you, bags and bags of Pirate Booty), or items you don't need access to all that often (food processor parts), add a couple of baskets with handles to the shelves. These beauties also stack, so if your shelf height allows it, you can add a few on top of each other—just add labels, so you know what's inside without having to pull each of them down to sort through them.
Got a thing for spice? We do too, which is why this clever spice rack is by far one of the best pantry organization hacks we've seen yet. Take advantage of the inside of your cabinet by installing narrow shelves and magnetic plates to keep all your flavors handy yet out of the way. Pro Tip: Make sure to install the racks so they don't run into the shelves on the inside cabinet.
Cans may stack easily, but there's nothing worse than trying to get to the bottom can by having to move all the other cans first. This 36-can organizer eliminates that problem and keeps the cans rolling from back to front as you use them. Group like items together, and you'll never get caught without black beans, corn or peas again.
Another great use of unused cabinet door space? Acrylic storage bins that can hold awkward-shaped items you need to access regularly like aluminum foil and sandwich baggies.
It’s July, which means your kids are probably staying up well past their average bedtimes because, really, who wants to go to bed when it’s still daylight outside? If you’re looking for the perfect way to knock out that end-of-day energy burst, then catching fireflies is your beacon to bedtime bliss. From wooded paths to tall grass, along with ponds and in bushes, fireflies are lighting the way to some serious summertime memories. Here’s where to look for these little bioluminescent beetles in Atlanta.
Since fireflies rely on their blinking lights to communicate with one another, areas with lots of light pollution have far fewer insects because they can't as easily make plans with one another. But, thanks to Piedmont Park's 189 acres, it's a haven in the hullabaloo of our modern city. Whether you look for them in the Northwoods across from the Atlanta Botanical Garden, or stay late at one of the park's two playgrounds, you've got a very good chance at seeing some lighting bugs lighting up.
This 135-acre multi-use park is the largest park in the City of Brookhaven, but thanks to its miles of nature trails and preserved wetlands, it's a great spot to see the lightning bugs come out at night. You don't have to veer too far off the path (or away from the parking lot, for that matter) to witness the twinkling lights of your favorite luminary insects. For your best show, steer clear of the sports fields and head towards the wooded area and trails near the lake. Lightning bugs don't like the chemicals that are used to make each multi-use field so green and weed-free.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park is a 2,965 acre National Battlefield that preserves a Civil War battleground of the Atlanta Campaign. You'll find fields with taller grass that are perfect for lightning bugs to levitate from, and the wooded trails that circle the mountain are crawling with the critters.
Among Allatoona Creek Park's 1450 acres are large open fields, forest, and the shores of Lake Allatoona. Two creeks (Little Allatoona and Big Allatoona) merge as you near the lake, and the land is managed to accommodate all species of wildlife with archery hunting for deer allowed during the season. The park is open for public use except during hunting season, and among these acres, you can find an impressive showing of fireflies.
Near the Cohutta Wilderness, this Georgia state park is a mecca for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders who come for the trails that wind through hardwood forest and blueberry thickets, crossing streams, and circling a pretty lake. There's even a mysterious 855-foot-long wall that's thought to have been built by early Indians as fortification against more hostile Indians or for ancient ceremonies. But the wall isn't the only ethereal thing about this park. The rare blue-ghost fireflies unique to the Appalachian mountain range can be found early in firefly season, but visitors should look and not catch these unique bugs.
Can you believe Walt Disney World is turning 50? In honor of the momentous occasion (which perfectly pairs with the diminished pandemic), the theme park is celebrating with two brand new nighttime spectacular shows.
Starting Oct. 1, park guests can catch “Disney Enchantment” and “Harmonious” as part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.” The shows will debut at Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT and pack a spectacular punch.
Head to Magic Kingdom Park to watch “Disney Enchantment,” which features first time immersive projection effects from Cinderella Castle. The show also incorporates stunning music and enhanced lighting.
Over at EPCOT, one of the largest spectaculars ever, “Harmonious” will combine songs and stories at the World Showcase Lagoon. The lighting, media, moving fountains and pyrotechnics are fabulous enough to entertain even your youngest and wiggliest kiddos.
To make the event pack even more punch, the show will highlight new interpretations of your fave Disney songs that have been translated into more than a dozen languages by over 200 artists around the globe.
Both shows will kick off Oct. 1, in perfect harmony with “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.”
More Disney magic is (almost) back! Disney announced today that fireworks spectaculars will be returning to the parks in July, just in time for Independence Day weekend. If you have an upcoming trip planned to the Happiest Place on Earth, you’re in luck!
Walt Disney World will start the performances on July 1 at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. Post up near the Cinderella Castle for lights, projections and pyrotechnics, or head to the World Showcase Lagoon for fireworks, music and lighting effects.
And at Disneyland, get ready for the show starting July 4 with “Mickey’s Mix Magic.” It will turn Main Street U.S.A., the Sleeping Beauty Castle and the “It’s a Small World” facade into fantastic party featuring projections, show lights and lasers.
Can’t make it to the parks? You can watch a virtual “Happily Ever After” fireworks show from the comfort of your couch. If your bags are packed, just remember to ensure you have a valid reservation for each park you want to visit and that it’s linked to your account. Enjoy the shows once more!
Can you believe we are already Halfway to Halloween? With the spooky season on the horizon, Walt Disney World is gearing up with a new event guaranteed to become a fan fave.
Soon you’ll be able to grab tickets to Disney After Hours BOO BASH, a ticketed experience that will take place on select nights from Aug. 10 to Oct. 31 2020. From 9 p.m. to midnight, park goers can enjoy character sightings, spooky decor, lighting, music and treats, plus special performances by the Cadaver Dans.
All guests can come in costume for this special event and stock up on plenty of candy. While everyone can come dressed up, guests older than 14 will have to skip the masks. Well, costume masks, that is. All guests will be required to wear approved face coverings during the event.
Tickets will go on sale in June. Guests of select Walt Disney Resort hotels will have an an early purchase window available to guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels. For all the details, click here.
America’s fave doll continue to move up in the world and she’s got a new crib to prove it. Mattel has just announced an all new Barbie DreamHouse!
The 2021 DreamHouse is the most customizable to date and continue to be compatible with the wheelchair ramp. So what else is new in Barbie’s digs?
Barbie can now enjoy soft grass and plush blankets in addition to a movable pool and slide. Also, she has her first-ever party room with a light up DJ stand, customizable lighting and sound with eight different colors, three songs, and two soundscape, plus an outdoor BBQ that turns into a dessert buffet!
Want to see the DreamHouse stat? Barbie is sharing a 360-degree interactive tour on the Mattel YouTube channel, where you can use your computer or phone to view the entire house.
Moving house can be stressful, but luckily Barbie has her gal pals Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin from The Home Edit to help. The organization duo have swooped into help Barbie organize her bedroom and kitchen.
Using their signature techniques like rainbow organization and clear storage, Barbie’s space has been completely transformed! Want some tips and tricks from The Home Edit on keeping your Barbie space in order?
Clea and Joanna encourage everyone to label everything (like accessories), use clear, modular storage and to use a rolling cart to make a Barbie play station that can be easily moved. It’s also better to use broad categories, like dolls, accessories and clothes when sorting, so kids can easily maintain their collection.
The all-new Barbie DreamHouse is on sale now! You can find it at Walmart, Target and Amazon for $179.
Beginning Sun. Apr. 11, Chuck E. Cheese will open two hours early, just for kids with special needs at select locations. The program will continue throughout April on Sundays and for the remainder of 2021.
photo: Chuck E. Cheese
Sensory Sensitive Sundays (at participating locations only) will feature dimmed lighting, quieter dining and entertainment environment and a sensory-friendly arcade experience. Along with the sensory sensitive setting, the chain’s caring staff will be on-hand to help out and make the experience memorable for each and every guest.
Also starting today, Chuck E. Cheese guests can donate to Autism Speaks with every purchase. At the register, round up your purchases to the nearest dollar, and all contributions will support Autism Speaks’ research, advocacy efforts, programs and services.
“At Autism Speaks, we are so grateful to have supporters like Chuck E. Cheese who help drive our mission by creating inclusive environments for all kids,” said Autism Speaks Vice President of Supports and Services Valerie Paradiz. “Their Sensory Sensitive Sundays and round-up campaign bring us one step closer to our vision of a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential.”
If you’re not sure which locations near you will offer this event, get the list right here.
