CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — This year, December 25th brings about a rare holiday convergence: the first night of Hanukkah falls on Christmas Day, marking only the fifth time this has occurred since 1900. Religious leaders highlight this unique overlap as an opportunity to reflect on universal themes of light and hope during troubling times, aptly dubbing the crossover "Chrismukkah," which intertwines the values of both traditions.
Hanukkah, known as the Festival of Lights, honors the Jewish triumph over the Greeks, symbolizing resilience and faith. “There’s so much negativity, so much of all the horrifying stories because I guess that's what makes news primarily,” remarked Rabbi Avremel Blesofsky of Lubavitch of Iowa City. He continued, “But Chanukah is a universal reminder really, light gets rid of darkness.” Meanwhile, Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, emphasizing messages of goodwill and peace.
Pope Francis, delivering his Christmas message from St. Peter’s Basilica, emphasized these shared values of unity and reconciliation. He urged people worldwide, “To silence the sound of arms and overcome divisions.” His call resonates especially amid current global conflicts, including those ravaging Ukraine and the Middle East. The pontiff's message encapsulates how both traditions can inspire peace amid societal divisions.
Celebrations reflect this message of unity. On Wednesday, dozens lit candles at the giant menorah constructed in Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland, organized by Chabad of Oregon. Attendees were treated to traditional hot latkes and shared the festive ambience. “It's kind of extra special happening at Christmas,” commented Linda Cohen, one of the revelers, highlighting the joy of blending both traditions.
Meanwhile, the public menorah lighting at Manhattan's Grand Army Plaza recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, coinciding with the Hanukkah-Christmas convergence. Rabbi Joe Potasnik, vice president of the New York Board of Rabbis, articulated how this moment symbolizes interfaith families uniting to celebrate their diverse traditions. “We can share moments together and recognize we’re different yet part of one human family,” he explained.
At St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Timothy Cardinal Dolan also made connections between the two holidays, noting, “Christmas is, of course, the feast of light as is Hanukkah.” This comment reinforces the shared emphasis on light found within both faiths, particularly during challenging times, inviting followers to find common ground.
Such collective feelings of joy are not only felt within organized events but also resonate deeply within families observing both holidays. The Gonsiorowski family from Ohio wholeheartedly embraces the idea of celebrating both Hanukkah and Christmas. Adam Gonsiorowski noted, “The kids will be off school for the entirety of Hanukkah, and we’ll still have our full Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations.” Amanda, his wife, added, “We do big meals, gift exchanges, and this year, since Hanukkah is over winter break, we get to have a Hanukkah party.” Their traditions encompass both the sacred welcome of light and the joy of family gatherings, affirming the beauty of shared celebrations.
Even during volunteer initiatives, the spirit of shared festivities shines through. Chef Gary Lampner at the Salvation Army kitchen takeover discussed preparing holiday meals, giving latkes—traditional Hanukkah potato pancakes—a Christmas flair. “This is braised beef brisket on top of the latkes,” Lampner shared, illustrating the festive culinary fusion. Rabbi Jonathan Berkun noted, “It’s rare to have the first candle of Hanukkah fall on Christmas Day... It’s an invitation for us to recognize how much we have in common.” His sentiments capture the essence of responding with kindness and contribution across different faiths.
Public celebrations are set to increase with continued menorah lightings throughout various locations, encouraging collective community involvement and warmth. Local ceremonies around Los Angeles County, as well as public gatherings planned for downtown Iowa City and Coral Ridge Mall, will provide spaces for individuals to find joy among friends and family and to publicly share their beautiful traditions.
This fascinating coincidence of Hanukkah and Christmas encourages everyone to transcend individual differences, fostering community spirit and hope. On this shared holiday, individuals and families, irrespective of their religious inclinations, can resonate with powerful themes of faith, resilience, and light as they step forward together toward the new year.
