Gathering around the table to light the menorah and sing the blessings has always been one of my favorite family Hanukkah memories, as my dad would bellow into a raucous (and full-length) version of "Ma'oz Tzur." At the center of our tradition is a menorah; there are many we rotate in throughout the years. We've used a brass one with a Star of David flanked by two lions, a stately silver design inspired by the Tree of Life, and a kitschy option that included a little ceramic figurine of a man holding the shamash (my family laughed at how he resembled my dad a little too much). Most recently, we used a New York-themed menorah that tied me back to my time spent living there. In a house full of Judaica, we tend to collect and hold on to our menorahs as we would art.
To help you celebrate Hanukkah, I've looked through hundreds of Channukiot to find the right mix of traditional designs, more unique artist-centric or themed options, and even affordable menorahs under $50. Our best advice is to go with the one that feels beautiful to you. It's something you'll keep for years to come and maybe even pass down. The only rule: a kosher Hanukkah menorah will have eight level candle holders plus a raised holder for the Shamash candle, all placed in a straight line.
Classic and traditional menorahs
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A personal favoriteThis enduring nature-inspired menorah from Michael Aram teeters the line between classic and contemporary; nevertheless, it's a timeless piece that reminds us of a tree of life. -
Easy to cleanCleaning wax out of a menorah is not easy, but the Trace Menorah's removable candle cups make the process less unwieldy. The minimalist steel frame comes in four different colors: blue, white, black, and terracotta.
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Timeless brassEvoke tradition with this timeless brass menorah that looks like a gleaming antique that could be passed down with the generations.
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Sleek marbleThis low profile marble design with brass accents is elegant and unassuming.
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Museum-worthyConstructed of a single piece of cast iron, the ingenious design has an integrated tray to catch wax drippings. It can be found in the National Museum of American Jewish History, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Unique and modern menorahs
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Shimmers and ShinesWe can't take our eyes off this delicate, yet captivating glass menorah that changes colors depending on the light.
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Part sculpture; part menorahInspired by Memphis geometrics, this sculptural menorah features hand-poured acrylic to achieve its marble look.
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The new modern heirloomTchotchke aims to disrupt how we think of Judaica by melding tradition with self-expression. The high-gloss ceramic menorah takes on the shape of a rainbow, fostering inclusivity and imagination.
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First-of-its-kindThe art of 3D printing has made its way to Judaica. Studio Armadillo produces unique, contemporary menorahs out of clay in Israel.
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A delft designAdmirers of the blue and white delft style will love collecting this menorah, a traditional menorah design painted on a ceramic base, along with all its coordinating Judaica pieces.
Themed menorahs
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This one is kosherThe Jewish people love their latkes, and their sushi. This one is sure to add some delight.
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Let's dinkCarry over your pickleball obsession from the courts into the holiday with this stained glass artistic take from stained glass artist Susan Fullenbaum.
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L'chaim to that me EspressoThe cocktail we've all been sipping. If you can't get enough of the creamy espresso martini or the hit song of 2024, this handmade confection is a cheeky ode to the caffeinating and boozy drink.
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Our best friendYou don't need to have a dachshund to love this wiener menorah. The ceramic vessel and unbearable cuteness make it shine as bright as the candles it holds.
Menorahs under $50
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Funky and sculpturalThis geometric design is quite unexpected, with a design that reminds us of mountains.
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Just $30Target's take on a botanical menorah is elegant and wallet-friendly.
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The KotelThis hand painted glass menorah is inspired by the Western Wall.
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Well-polishedThis shiny nickel menorah dons a contemporary silhouette and won't tarnish.
Hanukkah Candles
After choosing the perfect menorah, don't forget to pick up some Hanukkah candles.
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In the detailsIncludes 45 candles.
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Made of vegan palm waxIncludes 45 candles.
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Classic WhiteIncludes 45 candles.
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Pearlized PastelsIncludes 45 candles.
Menorah FAQ
What is a menorah?
A menorah is, at its core, a candelabra. The most well-known menorah is the one in the Holy Temple in Jerusalem which has seven branches and was used for daily ritual, explained Rabbi Leivy Lapidus of Chabad Intown in Atlanta. The menorah we light on Hanukkah is a Hanukkah menorah, officially known as a Chanukiah. It has eight branches, one for each night of Hanukkah, plus the "Shamash," or pilot candle, which is used to light the others.
Why is lighting a menorah a Hanukkah tradition?
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, celebrates the Maccabees' victory over the Greeks, who were trying to convert the Jewish people.
When the Jews returned to rededicate The Temple in Jerusalem, there was only enough oil for their menorah to burn for one day. However, a miracle occurred, and the menorah remained lit for eight days. We light a candle each night for eight days, adding a candle each night, to not only commemorate the miracle of oil, but as symbol of the triumph of light over darkness and the continuation of Jewish faith.
"Lighting the menorah teaches that darkness, and challenges that come our way wether spiritual, societal, or personal — is overcome by adding light," said Rabbi Leivy. "Each candle reminds us that the Torah's message and teachings is our eternal light and strongest tools to combat challenges, dispel negativity, antisemitism, and inspire hope, transforming the world with positivity and resilience."
What makes a menorah kosher for Hanukkah?
A Hanukkah menorah is marked by its nine branches, eight for candles, and one that is raised for the shamash, or helper candle. For a menorah to be kosher for Hanukkah, Rabbi Leivy identifies four rules:
- Eight equal lights: It should have eight candles, whether in a candelabrum or on any flat surface, and must be of equal height and alignment (except the shamash).
- Separate lights: The candles or oil cups must be separate from each other, not in a single bowl or arrangement that combines their flames.
- Shamash: The shamash should be distinct and positioned differently—either higher, lower, or off to the side — so it is clear it is not part of the eight Hanukkah lights.
- Fuel: You can use candles or oil. "Traditionally, olive oil is preferred as it resembles the oil used in the original Temple menorah," said Rabbi Leivy, though most households will use candles.
