Hanukkah gift-giving (or any holiday) is an opportunity to show your loved ones you care. It’s also a chance to care for the world, too. Incorporating tikkun olam, Hebrew for “repairing the world,” into your celebration of Hanukkah, Christmas and any other winter occasion can add meaning and significance during the darkest time of the year. With one gift suggestion for each night of Hanukkah (or for each of your friends or loved ones), you can feel good about exploring these gifts that give and give back.
1. Go Hipster
This bicycle chain menorah is made out of recycled materials by fair trade artisans in India. It’s also a great piece of Judaica for a young couple who want to start creating a modern Jewish home.
2. Life Doesn’t Sock
Everyone loves socks for Hanukkah! Consider Conscious Step, which donates money to a cause with each purchase or Bombas, which donates a pair of socks to someone in need for every pair purchased.
3. Chocoholics Rejoice (If it’s you, we won’t judge.)
Endangered Species chocolate bars are fair trade and 10% of net profits help wildlife. For holiday-themed options, you can also buy guilt free (fair trade), kosher gelt.
4. A Book a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
For the literary-minded on your list, consider purchasing from Better World Books. They support both literacy efforts worldwide and environmental sustainability through their online store.
5. Open Doors with Jewish Décor
From pretty table settings to modern Judaica, Peace Love Light is our go-to for Jewish home décor. Get 10% off your purchase with code 18Doors and support 18Doors in the process. Did you know we’re a non-profit? A portion of the proceeds from your gift will be donated to us.
6. Keeping the Earth—and Ourselves—Clean
Have a tree-hugger in your life? Help your loved ones help the environment by gifting them this plastic-free bath and body gift set from Good JuJu.
7. Snack Attack
Packed with Purpose’s “work from home” snack basket is a perfect, thoughtful gift this year. The company empowers women and small business owners while giving back to communities making an impact by working with purpose-driven companies.
8. Conserve and Preserve with Afternoon Tea
With the Jewish Monthly Tea Experience, give the gift of organic tea, accompanied by meaningful monthly teachings and activities. The company supports indigenous people, and a portion of all profits goes to the Nisqually Land Trust.
Appreciate Hanukkah Gift Giving
Remember that the tradition of Hanukkah is about faith, courage, and love. It is about having the freedom to choose who you are, and not who anyone else is. For Hanukkah this year, celebrate who you are and spend time with your loved ones. While gift-giving on Hanukkah is not a must, it can show others how much you mean to each other by sharing something simple like the ideas we have provided in this article.
Author: Miriam Steinberg-Egeth
