By Monica Ribreau
Did you know that Syrians light a tenth candle on the menorah for Chanukah? Have you ever tasted an onion pakora from India? How about a mashed potato latke from Italy? If you had the pleasure of attending the
The Charlotte Jewish News- February 2026- Page 15
Charlotte Jewish Day School Students Celebrate Chanukah Around the World
shared and diverse, connecting people across time and place.
Learning came to life as CJDS middle school students took younger grades and parents on a global journey to explore how Chanukah is celebrated in seven different countries around the
Israel, Eastern Europe, India, Syria, Holland, and the U. S.
Through research and collaboration, students explored the unique customs, traditions, and histories of Chanukah in their assigned countries.
After six weeks of study, building, and crafting, each group received a ten-by-ten tent to transform into a fully immersive space. Drawing on their creativity, they brought their countries to life with authentic decorations, clothing, hands-on activities, and traditional foods.
Upon entering Eastern Europe, the smell of freshly fried potato latkes filled the air, welcoming visitors with a taste of tradition. Then, guests went inside the tent, sang songs in Yiddish and played a game of‘ hot potato’ by the fireplace. Walk next door to India, and your hosts will be teaching you how to make a homemade coconut oil candle, starting with an empty glass jar, selecting your wick, and pouring the melted oil into the jar.
End your visit with a pakora, an onion latke with a tangy tamarind sauce. Visiting the Holland tent? Be prepared to play a classic game of dreidel. Chanukah around the world was truly a beautiful blend of scholarship, creativity, and community – just the way learning should be.
This project highlighted what makes Chanukah especially unique. Namely, it is a celebration of resilience, light, and identity, carried proudly by Jewish communities wherever they live.
By exploring global traditions, students gained a deeper appreciation for the richness of Jewish culture and the powerful idea that while traditions may look different, the values they represent unite us all.
Charlotte Jewish Day School( CJDS) middle school Chanukah Around the World Expo, you would have experienced these fun facts, and more!
Chanukah is a holiday that has been celebrated by Jewish communities around the world for thousands of years. While the story of Chanukah and its core values remain the same, each community has added its own customs, foods, music, and traditions influenced by the country and culture in which they live.
Learning about these differences helps students understand how Jewish identity can be both world.
Students from the 6th, 7th and 8th grades were organized in mixed groups, and each assigned a country. They included Italy,