How Many Days Until Hanukkah?

First night of Hanukkah 2026: Friday, December 4, 2026

44 days left Date: Friday, December 4, 2026
6 weeks 2 daysweeks + days
32business days
12weekend days
Fridayday of the week

Hanukkah 2026 begins at sundown on Friday, December 4, 2026, when the first candle of the menorah is lit. The Festival of Lights lasts eight nights: one more candle is added each evening, and the holiday ends at nightfall eight days later.

Hanukkah starts on the 25th of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar. Because that calendar is lunisolar, the Gregorian date moves every year, anywhere from late November to late December. The festival commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd century BCE.

Good to know

  • First candle: Evening of Friday, December 4, 2026 — 44 days left.
  • Length: Eight nights.
  • Hebrew date: Begins on 25 Kislev.
  • Traditions: Lighting the menorah, latkes and sufganiyot, the dreidel game and chocolate gelt.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Hanukkah start in 2026?

At sundown on Friday, December 4, 2026, when the first candle is lit. 44 days left.

How long does Hanukkah last?

Eight nights, ending at nightfall on the eighth day.

Why does the date of Hanukkah change every year?

It is fixed in the Hebrew calendar (25 Kislev), which follows both the moon and the sun, so it falls on a different Gregorian date each year.

Is Hanukkah a federal holiday?

No. Hanukkah is not a federal holiday in the US; schools and offices stay open.

How many days until another date? Count down to any date with the day counter

More countdowns

All countdowns →