Jewish Hostess Gifts

It sounds as if you are going to a Chanukah party! This is the Jewish holiday based on the story of the destruction of the temple where one remaining oil lamp miraculously kept burning for 8 days. Jewish people light a Menorah (candleholder) that holds eight candles plus a "Shamus". Each day an additional candle is added to the "Shamus" so that on the eighth day all the candles are burning. Small gifts are given particulary to the children, and in some households, there is a small gift every day of the holiday. Chocolate coins or "gelt" is a favourite.

If you want to bring something for the holiday specifically, there are many card and stationary stores that sell Chanukah serviettes and trinkets. You could couple this with specialty coffees or teas. If you live in a city with Judaica stores you might want to go see some of the things they carry.

One company is making coloured candy sticks dipped in chocolate. The box has a cellphane window made to look as if the candies are candles burning.

If you want to bring a CD or tape that will WOW your hosts in the long run, there are two fabulous Canadian Jewish groups. One is called The Flying Bulgar Klezmer Band, which is a kind of festive Jewish Jazz, the other is a CD called "Sweet Dreams 1 and 2" with Bluma Schonbrun, guitar, flute and cello. Very soft, peaceful, with old Jewish melodies that are truly beautiful. The Judaica stores might have them or any record store can order them.

If you want to make something, truffles would be great. Hope all this helps. Have fun!

Linda