This Hanukkah, we want to bring the magic of camp to you at home! For each of the eight nights, we’ll share a fun and meaningful way to celebrate at home, camp-style. From games and music to crafts and adventures, we’re sharing these ideas to help you create ruach (spirit), connection, and joy with your family this holiday season!

Let’s kick things off with Night 1: Play some festive and fun family games!

Read below about four fun and engaging Hanukkah-themed games you can play as a family:

Classic Dreidel 
Each player starts with 10 pieces of gelt (or coins). Spin the dreidel and follow the rules: Nun / נ = Do nothing, Gimel / ג = Take the whole pot, Hey / ה = Take half the pot, Shin / ש = Add one to the pot. Play until someone wins it all!

Dreidel Dash 
Everyone spins their dreidels at the same time, and the first player to land on Gimel / ג wins bragging rights! You can play as many rounds as you want!

Hanukkah Charades 
Act out holiday words like “latkes,” “menorah,” or “Maccabees” without saying a word! Get creative, silly, and enjoy!

Gelt Hunt 
Hide chocolate gelt around the house and see who can find the most. Bonus points for creative hiding spots! Don’t forget to go back and collect any extra hidden gelt after the game is over so pets don’t accidentally join in on the chocolate-eating!

We hope you enjoy these fun games at home, and we can’t wait to play together at camp all summer long! Snap a pic of your family game night and tag us on social media, we want to see your ruach (spirit)! @urjgfc 

Happy night one of Hanukkah 2025 from GFC!

L’Shalom,
The Greene Team