35 Hanukkah Songs
Discover melodies that light up the season and songs that unite hearts.
Hanukkah, also called the Festival of Lights, is a joyous Jewish holiday and there’s no better way to celebrate than with Hanukkah songs. As families gather to commemorate the miraculous story of the oil that burned for eight days in the ancient Temple, the unique and spirited melodies of Hanukkah bring the holiday to life.
Hanukkah songs contribute significantly to the festivities with messages of unity, hope, and light’s triumph over darkness. Yet, more than that, Hanukkah songs connect generations and cultures through melodies that reflect the changing cultural landscape. They promote a strong sense of community, shared history, and faith while evoking a sense of nostalgia. So, whether you’re searching for traditional Hanukkah songs or festive melodies for your kids, our list has it all.
Hanukkah Songs for Kids
1
The Jimmies’ ‘I Want a Hippopotamus for Hanukkah’
This catchy, kid-friendly song lends a joyful touch to the Festival of Lights. Watch your children’s faces light up as they sing along to this enchanting tune. It’s a perfect addition to your holiday playlist and will have everyone swaying and grinning.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
2
Barenaked Ladies’ ‘Hanukkah Blessings’
This upbeat song captures the essence of Hanukkah, making it an enjoyable way to learn about the festival’s traditions. Its playful lyrics and lively melody will have your children singing along as they learn about the meaning of the holiday.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
3
Six13’s ‘Chanukah (Shake it Off)’
Six13’s rendition of ‘Chanukah (Shake it Off)’ is sure to brighten up your Hanukkah celebrations. While learning about the Festival of Lights, this joyful, family-friendly song will have your children dancing and singing along. It’s the ideal way to introduce the little ones to the joyous traditions of Hanukkah, thanks to its amusing lyrics and lively melody.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
4
The LeeVees’ ‘How Do You Spell Channukkahh?’
‘How Do You Spell Channukkahh?’ will ignite your children’s Hanukkah enthusiasm and have your youngsters spelling and chanting in no time. Ideal for creating enduring holiday memories and fostering family learning, allow the music and lyrics to infuse the essence of Hanukkah into your home.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
5
Peter and Ellen Allard’s ‘Judah Maccabee, the Hammer’
Prepare to celebrate Hanukkah with your children by listening to ‘Judah Maccabee, The Hammer.’ This tune will have your children singing along and learning about the Hanukkah hero. Share the holiday spirit with them as you educate them on tales of courage and victory during this special season.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
6
Julie Silver’s ‘Chanukah Blessings’
Captivate your little ones’ hearts with this cheerful song and its meaningful lyrics that embody the essence of Hanukkah. Create lasting memories as you sing along and make this Hanukkah especially meaningful for your children with this musical classic.
Listen to this song on Apple Music.
7
The Kiboomers’ ‘I Have a Little Dreidel’
‘I Have a Little Dreidel’ is a great way to introduce your children to the joys of Hanukkah. This fun take on the popular song will have your kids spinning like dreidels in no time. It’s the ideal way to teach kids about this joyous event, with engaging melodies and cheerful rhythms.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
8
Pink Martini’s ‘Ocho Kandelikas (Eight Little Candles)’
This infectious tune captures the atmosphere of Hanukkah while also teaching children about the significance of each candle. The festivity of the tune and rhythms will make your kids’ Hanukkah a very memorable one.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
9
The Kiboomers’ ‘Hanukkah is Here’
This lively and engaging song was composed specifically for children and features catchy melodies and charming lyrics. It’ll teach your kids about Hanukkah traditions while filling them with joy. It’s perfect for creating that festive environment.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
Hanukkah Songs in Hebrew
10
Moshe Klein’s ‘Hanerot Hallalu’
The lyrics express appreciation for the miracles and devotion that Hanukkah inspires. The melody, sung during the ritual of lighting candles, resounds with feelings of hope. This song wonderfully captures the spirit of Hanukkah and its messages about faith and perseverance.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
11
Blackmore’s Night’s ‘Ma-O-Tzur’
This beloved Hanukkah song in Hebrew carries historical significance with its melodious verses capturing the holiday’s spirit through tales of liberation. It unites souls with each note, celebrating the miracle of lights and the strength of tradition during Hanukkah.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
12
Danna Banana’s ‘Mi Yimalel’
Experience the delight of Hanukkah through the vibrant Hebrew song ‘Mi Yimalel.’ This beloved composition commemorates the triumph of light over darkness by recounting the valor of the Maccabees and the miracle of the burning oil. Its spirited lyrics and elevating melody resonate with the spirit of the festival.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
13
Maccabeats’ ‘Al HaNisim’
Experience the splendor of Hanukkah by listening to the entrancing Hebrew song ‘Al HaNisim.’ This soulful melody celebrates Hannukah’s miracles. This timeless musical treasure will immerse you in the rich culture and history of the holiday.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
14
Matan Ariel’s ‘Sivivon Sov Sov Sov’
The lyrics refer to the dreidel, or ‘sivivon,’ as it dances and turns while twirling. This spirited composition captures the spirit of Hanukkah, commemorating the miracle of the oil and the perseverance of the Jewish people.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
15
Matan Ariel’s ‘Kad Katan’
This festive melody celebrates the miracle of the oil and the triumph of light over darkness. Its lyrics tell a timeless story of devotion, unity, and hope, making it a treasured addition to the holiday’s joyous celebrations.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
16
Kaltaf Band’s ‘Hava Narima’
The song’s lively melody highlights the beauty of light while praising unity and hope. This song, which translates to “Let’s Light the Candles,” encourages families to gather together and ignite the flames of the menorah.
Listen to this song on Apple Music.
17
Nava Loden’s ‘The Days of Chanukah’
The enchanting Hebrew hymn ‘The Days of Chanukah’ by Nava Loden will help you experience the magic of Hanukkah. This song captures the essence of the Festival of Lights, which celebrates unity, miracles, and the triumph of light over darkness, in a beautiful way.
Listen to this song on Deezer.
Traditional Hanukkah Songs
18
Glee Cast’s ‘Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah’
Voices unite in jubilant harmony, narrating the miraculous tale of the season and disseminating warmth as they do so. Feel the spirit of togetherness as this classic song bridges the gap between generations in a beautiful way.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
19
The Learning Station’s ‘Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel’
This lively song recounts the festive spinning game and its symbolic significance during the Festival of Lights. The dreidel is rooted in Jewish tradition and represents hope, miracles, and unity. Joyfully sung, the melody evokes the spirit of Hanukkah and celebrates the holiday’s history.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
20
Peter, Paul, and Mary’s ‘Light One Candle’
‘Light One Candle’ is a timeless Hanukkah anthem with moving lyrics that speak of resiliency and promise, imploring listeners to ignite the flame of courage even in the darkest of times. Its rich harmonies and profound message serve as a reminder that a single act of compassion can dispel the darkness.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
21
The Klezmatics’ ‘Happy Joyous Hanukkah’
This traditional Hanukkah song celebrates resiliency, unity, and the triumph of light over darkness through soulful harmonies and energetic rhythms. Enjoy a musical voyage that resounds with tradition and happiness.
Listen to this song on Apple Music.
22
Abigail Lapell and Laura Spink’s ‘Ner Li’
Abigail Lapell and Laura Spink’s performance of ‘Ner Li’ is a mesmerizing blend of tradition and modernity. Explore the lyrics and melodies that highlight the significance of Hanukkah. Their interpretation is an emotional tapestry, connecting the past to the present and embodying the holiday’s spirit.
Listen to this song on Feats of Strength.
23
Theodore Bikel’s ‘Chanukah, Oh Chanukah’
This traditional Hanukkah song celebrates the enduring nature of the Jewish people throughout history. It intertwines cultural heritage and the spirit of unity during the Festival of Lights through its lively rhythms and heartfelt lyrics.
Listen to this song on YouTube Music.
24
Solomon Golub and Abraham Reisen’s ‘Borukh Ate’
This cherished composition embodies the essence of the holiday beautifully. Hanukkah’s spirit of gratitude and regeneration is conveyed through the song’s touching lyrics. The music will transport you on a journey of cultural significance and heartfelt emotion.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
25
Moshe Oysher’s ‘Drei Dreidele’
Moshe Oysher’s rendition of ‘Drei Dreidele’ celebrates the holiday’s themes of perseverance and unity. The song’s lively melody conveys the excitement of the beloved tradition of spinning the dreidel. Without a doubt, it’s a spirited addition to your Hanukkah playlist.
Listen to this song on Shazam.
26
‘Ikh Bin a Kleyner Dreydl (I Have a Little Dreidel)’
‘Ikh Bin a Kleyner Dreydl’ is a beloved Hanukkah song that captures the joyous atmosphere of the holiday in a playful manner. This jubilant melody honors the spinning dreidel as a symbol of unity and fortitude. The song’s lively melody embodies the cultural richness and solidarity inherent to Hanukkah celebrations.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
YouTube Hanukkah Songs
27
Matisyahu’s ‘Happy Hanukkah’
Matisyahu’s ‘Happy Hanukkah’ celebrates Hanukkah with modern beats. It honors tradition while adopting contemporary sounds with its rhythmic vocals. The lyrics explore unity, gratitude, and heritage, highlighting the significance of Hanukkah beyond the symbolism of the lights.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
28
The Maccabeats’s ‘Candlelight’
Just as the Maccabees triumphed over adversity, this song represents the persevering spirit of a community working together to surmount obstacles. Its uplifting melody and sincere lyrics provide a profound reflection on faith and tradition.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
29
Eric Schwartz’s ‘Hanukkah Hey Ya!’
‘Hanukkah Hey Ya!’ is a spirited celebration of tradition. This song’s catchy rhythms and uplifting melodies emphasize the significance of community and heritage. It is a must-listen during the Festival of Lights due to its lively lyrics and upbeat cadence.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
30
Peter, Paul, and Mary's ‘Light One Candle’
Through its timeless melody and pensive lyrics, this song invites us to reflect on past struggles and band together in the face of adversity. The narratives capture the spirit of unity, inspiring us to ignite not only physical flames but also the inner fires of resolve and community in the face of adversity.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
31
Adam Sandler’s ‘Hanukkah Song’
Using witty humor and a hint of nostalgia, Sandler uses this song to pay tribute to Jewish luminaries and celebrate the community’s diversity. It transcends the conventional light-over-darkness motif by highlighting the spirit of unity and shared heritage. It’s a humorous reminder of the pleasure of the holiday season and the enduring strength of cultural identity.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
32
Debbie Friedman’s ‘The Latke Song’
The song commemorates the tradition of frying latkes, crispy potato pancakes that represent perseverance and miracles, with lively lyrics. Friedman’s composition fosters a sense of community and conveys the significance of cherished traditions.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
33
Meir Kay & Kosha Dillz’s ‘Dreidel Trap’
‘Dreidel Trap’ provides a fresh take on traditional Hanukkah music by fusing contemporary beats with cultural origins. The song fuses ancient customs with modern music, creating a harmonious synthesis that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. Its innovative approach revitalizes the song, creating a refreshing musical experience.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
34
Michelle Citrin’s ‘Pass the Candle (From Left to Right)’
‘Pass the Candle (From Left to Right)’ crafts a timeless tale of unity and tradition. The song transcends generations through its heartfelt lyrics and captivating harmonies, evoking a sense of community as the candles are passed.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
35
The LeeVees’ ‘Goyim Friends’
The song examines cross-cultural friendship and the glory of diversity. Although not exclusively centered on the traditional light-versus-darkness motif, the song emphasizes the broader concept of unity despite disparities. With its catchy melody and meaningful lyrics, “Goyim Friends” captures the essence of shared holiday connections.
Listen to this song on YouTube.
