As the winter holiday season rolls around, the ugly Christmas sweater does too. Over Hanukkah, we have nothing special to wear to work during the week, so millennials have taken advantage of this piece of pop culture by creating Hanukkah sweaters. They might look cute with their dancing dreidels and punny lines like, “deck the halls with matzah balls” but do we have what to worry about? A major concern is that the Hanukkah sweater will lead to the Hanukkah bush, which is basically a smaller Christmas tree decorated in blue. Many Jewish parents do not want to see their children go down the assimilation path which is why pushing Jewish gifts is very important.
Hanukkah menorahs are the centerpiece of Hanukkah as it is basically impossible to celebrate without one. While a Hanukkah menorah passed down throughout the generations is meaningful, millennials are all about the “me” and probably want something new that expresses their personality. Israeli artists are in the loop of what is “in”, so they have been creating new and modern Hanukkah menorahs that are just as incredible as millennials think they themselves are. Aside from travel Hanukkah menorahs, there are bold ones that almost defy gravity, have a dual purpose or are just absolute masterpieces. These Hanukkah menorah are not just for millennials though, it’s easy to see how anyone could fall in love with one of these Judaica pieces.
Jewish gifts does not mean it needs to be a Jewish item but there are also plenty of other Jewish-y gifts to give to your millennial. The timeless trend of name necklaces is always a perfect gift to give in silver or gold. What makes a name necklace Jewish? Having the option to order the name in Hebrew! Hebrew name necklaces are an incredible spin on the traditional name necklace and makes it one of a kind. If the Hebrew style is not so much their style, a classic name necklace is always on point. Either way you choose, a personalized piece of jewelry will be enjoyed time after time.
Millennials are living in their own spaces now being that they are in their 20s and 30s which also makes tableware and home décor something they might really appreciate. From caring only about themselves to now caring about the condition of their coffee table, a cute set of coasters featuring modern Jewish leaders might a fantastic addition to the perfect gift. Pop art coasters of Golda Meir, Ben Gurion and Herzl will make them smile or those with pictures of falafel will basically make them drool and remind them of Israel.
So, although millennials and religion is something to worry about, giving them a Jewish gift they would appreciate is taken care of for you. Jewish identity is something that generally sticks with people no matter where they stand religiously, and the small things can make all the difference to them. Keep to being modern and open with the Jewish gifts and it will go a long way. Hanukkah is a time to celebrate the miracle of Hanukkah with family so hopefully your millennial won’t bring his Hanukkah sweater with them but rather a smile and a willingness to eat a latke and play dreidel.
