For so many years the Jewish community, and many non-Jews, have bemoaned the fact that Thanksgiving has become all but lost in the push for Christmas. Store decorations abound even before Halloween, advertisements begin in early November and Black Friday has become Terrific Bargain Thursday.
Yet, this year the Jewish community has turned our long held complaint on its head. By early fall we were discussing and planning for the arrival of Thanksgivukkah. T-shirts, turkey shaped menorahs, and special recipes have led to Pinterest boards a-plenty.
I know some will think I am the Jewish “scrooge” for saying this, yet for me Hanukkah + Thanksgiving ≠ Thanksgivukkah. And, when we try to make them so, we are doing just what we have complained others have done for at least the past 20 years.
It is true that both Thanksgiving and Hanukkah embrace a similar theme of religious freedom. Yet, one celebrates our particular Jewish heritage and the other embraces our uniquely American tradition. Thanksgiving is one of the rare holidays we have in common with our neighbors, friends, colleagues and every member of our families.
Though a minor holiday on the Jewish landscape, Hanukkah has become a source of Jewish identity and celebration throughout America because we yearn for something to “call our own” as winter and Christmas approach. While small bags of real or chocolate gelt may have given way to larger gifts, lighting candles, enjoying latkes, and playing dreidel still offer eight nights of family connection, stories, and Jewish memory making. Even as we rush in from soccer or settle down to homework, we take the time, share stories, and watch the sparkle in each other’s eyes as the flames flicker.
For generations, Thanksgiving has offered us a pause and a chance to reflect and give voice to all we are thankful for in our lives. Whether your family tradition is sleeping late or watching the parade, there is a tradition. Some of us cook throughout the day; others have everyone bring a dish and then go out to play football. And everyone has favorite dishes and more importantly savored memories and connections to relive each November. Why would we want to let go of one moment?
We don’t need latkes instead of grandma’s cherished mashed potatoes on this Thanksgiving; there are seven other nights for potatoes to become pancakes. Brisket need not replace turkey nor do pumpkin filled donuts need to replace pie. Cherish every moment of Thanksgiving. Share all that you are grateful for and gather new memories to recall and smile about throughout the year.
Then, after the sun has set, the dishes are done and everyone has gone for a walk or watched a football game or two, pull out the Hanukkah menorah and some dreidels. Light the candles, sing, play and laugh the night away. Celebrate Hanukkah.
Happy Thanksgiving and Chag Hanukkah Sameach.
Prior to her position with the Grinspoon Foundation, Iris served as a synagogue educator in Syracuse NY, the Central New York PJ Library Program Coordinator and as a national consultant for PJ Library.
Iris holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education, a master’s degree in Special Education and Reading, and Advanced Certification in School Leadership and Administration. Her experience as a secular educator and educational leader in congregational and community settings spans over 20 years. She is also a lay leader in Jewish organizations on the local and national levels. Iris served as the President of CAJE – the Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education, which was the largest member organization for Jewish educators in the country.
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