MORE THAN 2,000 years ago, a small jar of oil burned in the temple of Jerusalem for eight days, to the astonishment of the Jewish army that had just recaptured that city. Everything about Hanukkah recollects this miraculous tale--the eight menorah candles, the latkes fried in sizzling oil, the puppet shows some families like to stage--even the game of dreidel, where each spin of the top turns up a Hebrew letter from the saying "A great miracle happened there."

Of all the Jewish festivals in the year, Hanukkah is a favorite at our house. Gifts are small (buttons made from buffalo-head nickels were a hit last year), and supplies easily are made or found in synagogue gift shops. For eight festive nights, we have the chance to enjoy each other's company and Hanukkah's simple pleasures.

Cathryn Harding, a writer in Charlottesville, Virginia, has celebrated Hanukkah for 32 years.