When to Light Hanukkah Candles: A Complete Guide: 1 Minute to Mastering the Timing of Your Hanukkah Celebrations

Lighting Hanukkah candles is a cherished tradition observed by Jewish families worldwide. Knowing exactly when to light the menorah is key to honoring the festival's customs and achieving the right ambiance in your home. Traditionally, Hanukkah candles are lit after nightfall each evening of the eight-day festival, except for Friday night when candles are lit before sunset, prior to the Shabbat candles. The time may vary depending on your location and specific family or community traditions. As a designer, I always suggest integrating your menorah display into your home’s layout, considering aspects like natural light, room function, and flow. For example, setting up the menorah near a window is both traditional and visually impactful—allowing the lights to be visible from outside and making the act of candle-lighting a central decorative element in your living space. If you are seeking layout ideas that combine tradition with contemporary design, tools like a home designer platform can inspire thoughtful placement and help harmonize festive decor with your personal style.

Tips 1:

Place your menorah on a sturdy, non-flammable surface at or near window height for both safety and tradition. Align the candles from right to left, but when lighting them, move from left to right, so the newest candle is lit first.

FAQ

Q: What time should I light Hanukkah candles each night?

A: Light candles after nightfall, except on Friday, when you light them before sunset, preceding Shabbat candles.

Q: Where should I place the menorah in my home?

A: Traditionally, near a window facing the street to fulfill the mitzvah of publicizing the miracle, and on a safe, stable surface.

Q: Does it matter who in the household lights the menorah?

A: While often the head of the household lights, it’s customary in many traditions for each member to light their own menorah.

Q: Do I need to use new candles every night?

A: Yes, add a new candle each night so by the eighth night, all candles are lit, plus the shamash (helper candle) used to light the others.

Q: Can I use electric menorahs instead of candle ones?

A: Electric menorahs may be used for decoration or public display, but traditional candle or oil menorahs are preferred for fulfilling the mitzvah.