Look, 2020 has been rough. Even though there’s a vaccine on the horizon, we don’t know when SA will be getting it, let alone where on the list we fall on. This festive season will be a little different; no big family gatherings, no hugging your grandparents, it might feel a little, well, isolated. Hanukkah doesn’t have to feel any less special if you don’t let it.

Limit Your Hanukkah Guestlist

It’s unrealistic for us to assume you’re going to be completely isolated during Hanukkah, so if you are going to have friends or family over, limit your guest list. We are still in a pandemic, so it’s important to keep in mind that rotating your guestlist each night might not be the best option. Keep it small and stick to the same people every night. If you’re going to make it completely virtual, check out our guide to host a virtual dinner party.

Serve “Untraditional” Hanukkah Food

We’re not saying to not serve challah, latkes or a delicious brisket but we’re saying take this opportunity to mix it up. There are Jews all over the globe, so why not celebrate that. Why not branch out and try making an Ethiopian dish to acknowledge the Beta Israel, or try your hand at making a Brazilian dish or even Argentine or Morrocan dishes! It will make this Hanukkah even more interesting and delicious.

Bring it Outdoors

If you’ve got the space to celebrate Hanukkah outdoors, why not! It’s safer and any gatherings are actually recommended to be outdoors due to Corona. If you’re planning on hosting an outdoor celebration look for an LED menorah that will help keep the “flames” lit throughout the celebration.

Share Hannukah Treats With Friends

Even though you may not be able to have a big gathering this year, you can still share this festival of light with your friends. Set up a zoom call where you and your friends and family can making Hanukkah cookies together, it’s a fun experience for all. Take it one step further and drop some treats like sufganiyot or cookies to make their Hanukkah experience more special.

Don’t Skip A Night

Not skipping a night really makes Hanukkah feel like an extra special occasion, especially if you have young children. Even if you’re not going all out like you do on the first and the last night, try to make an effort to light the candle every night. Include the grandparents or whoever on a zoom call even if it’s for 15 minutes, kids are like sponges, let them have a good memory of lighting the candles every night during Hanukkah.

Get Covid-Friendly Hanukkah Gifts

This is not a must but could be a fun way of showcasing the times we are living in. Some nice slippers, a good book, headphones, a fun game or puzzle, a new kitchen utensil; anything that will encourage people to stay indoors while still having fun.

If you want to know more about the history of Hanukkah and the traditional food that is eaten during the holiday, make sure to check it out here.