Looking for yet another reason to eat delicious food and give (and receive!) gifts in the upcoming month?   Chrismukkah is the ultimate interfaith holiday.

The holiday originated on the television show The O.C. in the early 00’s in a mixed Jewish-Christian household, when Seth Cohen declared that he had “created the greatest super-holiday known to mankind”.  It is now a part of pop culture-and isn’t just for interfaith households-but can be celebrated by everyone.  Before it worked its way into the mainstream, many Jews were already celebrating Christmas as a “festival of the world around us”.  Many contemporary Jews were celebrating Christmas in a secular sense, while celebrating Hanukkah as their religious holiday.  Now more than ever, in the year 2016, when the first day of Hanukkah falls on Christmas Eve at sundown, Chrismukkah can bring friends and family together for food and celebration.

 THE FH QUICK CHRISMAKKUH GUIDE

 Start the evening out in true Shabbat style with challah bread!   A perfect hostess gift is this Shabbat set from Faithhaus, including a beautiful challah cover: 

A universally loved appetizer is potato latkes. Here is a great contemporary recipe. Serve with sour cream and applesauce:

http://www.purewow.com/recipes/The-Crispiest-Potato-Latkes-Ever

Make your own with this super cute DIY project:

 Directions here:  http://www.yamaclaus.com/yamaclaus-print/

8 DAYS OF PRESENTS

 The Magic of Chrismukkah is in the 8 days of presents, with one special day filled with many presents! 

Light the first candle with this contemporary menorah $150

The perfect all natural beeswax candles for the menorah (or a birthday cake!) $23 for 45

A gnome/tomte/nisse lurking on your mantle adds a Scandinavian touch without screaming CHRISTMAS, $20-28

A wreath on the door? Get a year-round rustic look with this faux deer-antler wreath $100

For the home with an organic and modern look this Kiddush cup (doubles as a contemporary chalice!) fits the bill : 

The hamsa is the universal symbol of protection and good luck. This gold leaf hamsa is the perfect interfaith décor for your space.

 Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah from Faithhaus!