In 2026, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Friday, December 4 and ends at nightfall on Saturday, December 12. Calgary’s Jewish community marks the eight nights with public menorah lightings, family events and plenty of latkes.
Public Menorah Lightings
Calgary’s Chabad centres and synagogues typically hold public menorah lightings during Hanukkah, often with music, donuts and kids’ activities, at locations including malls and civic spaces. The Calgary Jewish Community Centre also hosts community celebrations. We’ll list 2026 dates and locations here as they’re announced.
Food
Look for latkes and sufganiyot (jam-filled doughnuts) at Jewish bakeries and delis in the weeks around Hanukkah; order ahead for the first night.
Hanukkah 2026 Dates
| Night | Candle lighting |
|---|---|
| 1st night | Friday, December 4 (light before Shabbat begins) |
| 2nd night | Saturday, December 5 (after Shabbat ends) |
| 3rd–7th nights | December 6–10 |
| 8th night | Friday, December 11 |
| Ends | Nightfall, Saturday, December 12 |
More Winter Festivities
See what else is on in Calgary this weekend.
Related: this weekend in Calgary, tree lightings.
Part of: Calgary Christmas Guide 2026
