Without a doubt this is going to be a difficult holiday season in Israel. With the Hamas-Israel war still raging, it’s hard to summon up the spirit to celebrate Hanukkah, which is usually one of the happiest, and most fun holidays in the Jewish calendar.

But as Israelis from every sector of society have come to realize in the last two months of war, life must go on. It has to go on. This is the way the country will succeed and win.

Yesterday, people in Israel lit the first candles of the holiday, and began tucking in to the traditional treats – soufganiyot, potato pancakes and chocolate coins.

To celebrate the holiday, we bring you a light-hearted story looking at eight fun facts about Hanukkah, because whatever is happening, we all need this light in the darkness.

Wishing you safe and happy holidays wherever you are.