When to Light Candles on Hanukkah: A Quick Guide to Hanukkah Candle Lighting

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the menorah's oil lasting eight days. One of the most important and beloved traditions of Hanukkah is lighting the menorah (also called hanukkiah). Understanding the proper timing for lighting the candles is essential not only for honoring the tradition but also for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home during the holiday.

The traditional time to light Hanukkah candles is at nightfall each evening of the holiday, with the specific time varying slightly depending on your tradition and location. Generally, most families light the menorah shortly after sunset, while some communities prefer to wait until nightfall, when three stars are visible in the sky. The key is to light the candles at a time when they can be seen by others, fulfilling the mitzvah (commandment) of publicizing the miracle.

On Friday evening, however, Hanukkah candles must be lit before the Shabbat candles, which are traditionally kindled 18 minutes before sunset. On Saturday night, the candles are lit after the conclusion of Shabbat, once the Havdalah ceremony has been completed.

As a designer, I always find that careful placement and timing of candle lighting can dramatically enhance the atmosphere of a space—balance the glow of your menorah against other ambient lighting in your home environment for the most beautiful and meaningful effect. Consider setting your menorah near a window to share the festival’s light with the world while complementing your interior design.

Tips 1:

Place your menorah on a sturdy, nonflammable surface away from curtains or anything flammable. The glow from the menorah can be reflected off a mirror or glass surface to amplify its beauty and light up your entire room—this is an interior designer’s trick to create a festive, warm atmosphere during Hanukkah.

FAQ

Q: When do you light candles on the first night of Hanukkah?

A: You light the first candle at sunset or nightfall (when three stars are visible) on the first evening of Hanukkah, following your local custom.

Q: Do you light Hanukkah candles from left to right or right to left?

A: Place new candles in the menorah from right to left, but light them from left to right, starting with the newest candle first.

Q: What do you do if you miss the correct time to light the candles?

A: If you miss lighting the menorah at nightfall, you can still light it later in the evening as long as there are people awake to see it.

Q: How long should Hanukkah candles burn?

A: The candles should burn for at least 30 minutes after nightfall. Make sure to use candles that will stay lit for this duration.

Q: Where should I place my menorah for Hanukkah?

A: Traditionally, it is placed near a window so that the lights are visible from the outside, symbolizing the spreading of the miracle. Always ensure it is in a safe spot, away from flammable objects.