This year, I’m looking forward to Hanukkah more than ever before. The reminder that each one of us has the power to bring light to the darkness has never resonated so much. And I think just about all of us Jews need the pick-me-up this joyful holiday provides.
As I prepare for the holiday (which starts the evening of Thursday, December 7 this year), I’m making it a priority to focus on supporting Jewish-owned businesses and Jewish and Israeli creators. One good thing to have come out of this tragic time is the phenomenal sense of unity among the Jewish people, and there are so many amazing Jewish businesses to support – many of which are struggling right now.
Whether you’re looking for ideas for gifts for loved ones or are wanting to treat yourself for the Festival of Lights, I hope you’ll find just the thing among our very favorite Hanukkah gift options for 2023.
Petite Floating Magen Necklace by Ariel Tidhar
Magen David Necklace
If recent events have got you in the mood for a new #PDJ (public display of Judaism), you can’t do any better than to turn to jewelry designer and Smashing Life member Ariel Tidhar. Speaking of which… we’re actually giving one of these beauties in our Make a New Jewish Bestie Challenge running from Monday, November 26 through Thursday, November 30, so sign up now for your chance to win it!
Blue Pattern Menorah by Maiyan Ben Yona
Modern Menorah
Handcrafted in Israel by ceramicist Maiyan Ben Yona, this unique menorah consists of 9 separate pieces (eight of the same size and a larger shamash) that you can arrange as you like!
Talia Dreidel Terrarium by Adara Rituals
Dreidel Terrarium
If you’re after some Hanukkah decor that’s sleek, sophisticated, and not even the tiniest bit cheesy, this dreidel terrarium is second to none. Fill it with floral arrangements, succulent gardens, twinkle lights, or gelt – or let the design stand for itself.
The Diamonds of the Holy Land Necklace by Solo✦K Jewelry
Israel Necklace
Keep our homeland close to your heart always with this gorgeous 14k gold pendant (available in yellow white, or rose gold) by Israel-based luxury jeweler Solo✦K.
Hamsa Embroidery Kit
Jewish Embroidery
If you need a new hobby to distract you from doom scrolling, how abut some Jewish embroidery? This lovely kit features a hamsa surrounded by colorful and decorative elements – and once completed, it’ll look stunning up on your wall.
Jewish Joy Journal
Jewish Joy Journal
Part goal planner, part gratitude journal, part non-judgmental Jewish BFF, The Jewish Joy Journal (written and created by ME!) will help us, as Jewish women, connect more deeply with our Jewish identity, achieve our goals, and increase our happiness, resilience, and productivity during challenging times.
Hanukkah Fair Isle Pajamas
Hanukkah Pajamas
These cute Fair Isle pajamas made of extra-soft organic cotton guarantee you 8 cozy nights.
Hamsa Ceramic Mug
Hamsa Mug
This cool graphic mug lets you fend off bad vibes and caffeinate all at once.
Travelling Walls of Jerusalem Hammered Turquoise Chanukiah by Nadav Art
Travel Menorah
If you’re on the go this Hanukkah, this gorgeous made-in-Israel menorah representing the walls of Jerusalem is just the thing to keep the lights burning bright – but it’s stunning enough that you might just want to use it when you’re home too!
Shabbat: Recipes and Rituals from My Table to Yours by Adeena Sussman
Shabbat Cookbook
I’m obsessed with Adeena Sussman’s new cookbook, which is basically a love letter to Shabbat in her adopted home of Israel.
Blue and Gold Embroidered Cream Linen Challah Cover
Challah Cover
This beautifully embroidered linen challah cover featuring a design with flowers, leaves and birds is the perfect special touch for your Shabbat table – and who doesn’t want a little extra blue and white in their life these days?
Magen David Napkin Rings by Ariel Tidhar
Magen David Napkin Rings
Bring your Jewish pride to the table with these gorgeous napkin rings.
Handmade Ceramic Terracotta Hamsa by Yahalomis
Terracotta Hamsas
These ceramic hamsas are handmade in Israel and make the perfect wall hanging for your modern Jewish home.
Happy Hanukkah Hearts Menorahs Kitchen Towel by Arielle Zorger Designs
Hanukkah Kitchen Towel
Clean up after making latkes with this decorative kitchen towel featuring the artwork of Arielle Zorger Designs!
Sacred Protection Necklace by Susan Alexandra
Sacred Protection Necklace
Feel protected by this colorful necklace New York designer Susan Korn created in honor of her Holocaust survivor grandmother.
8 Nights of Delight Hanukkah Tasting Collection by Sugarfina
8 Nights of Delight
This Hanukkah tasting collection includes a new candy for each of the eight nights, all kosher-certified.
Yael Hamsa Tealight Holder by Adara Rituals
Hamsa Tealight Holder
Bring some light to the darkness all year round with this stylish tealight holder.
Blue and White Yamakopter
Yamakopter
The original novelty kippah with a spinning propeller, this blue and white Yamakopter makes an unexpected and fun gift!
What’s on your Hanukkah wish list this year? Let us know in the comments, or at @yourjewishlife on Instagram!