While holiday enthusiasts are breaking out their Christmas trees and stockings, some of us are getting into the spirit a little differently. As a member of the tribe, December is high time for latkes and dreidels. And while our celebrations are truly lit (it’s the Festival of Lights, after all!) the merch selection has never quite had the same allure as the magic of Christmas.
The eight nights of Hanukkah begin on December 25 this year, and we’re on a mission to elevate the classic blue and silver while helping you answer the most challenging question of our time: “what should I buy for my Jewish friends, anyway?” Whether you're looking to ditch the kitsch or fully lean into the uniqueness being one of the Chosen people, here are 24 items that should be on your Hanukkah decorations list.
Jonathan Adler
I just want an entire zoo of these Jonathan Adler menorahs.
Piecework Puzzles
There're truly no better way to celebrate than with jelly donuts, dreidels and gelt – except maybe in puzzle form.
Adara Rituals
Dreidel-shaped terrariums are the Hanukkah decorations extra I never know I needed. Add a plant for some greenery or dress them up with fairy lights!
Susan Alexandra
If Betsey Johnson were to create a capsule Hanukkah collection, this menorah would undoubtedly be a part.
Garnet Hill
We love a personalization moment, especially when it's as cozy as this pillow.
Adara Rituals
Candle holders shaped like the Star of David? Yes please!
Wayfair
For a more modern take, we love this marble menorah (with pops of gold, of course).
Adara Rituals
ICYMI, it's Hanukkah. This beaded sign is giving DIY vibes without all the effort.
Lele Sadoughi
Reigning queen of headbands, Lele Sadoughi, truly has something for everyone. I'll take your ugly Christmas sweater and raise you one (actually cute) dreidel headband.
abc Home
We may not have Christmas trees, but *some of us* have leaned into the Hanukkah bush movement. 👀 No judgement here, though -- unless, of course, you don't decorate yours with on-theme ornaments like this.
Tchotchke
This ultra cool bubble menorah is a vibe. Buy it for your most grown up friend who actually has their life together.
Etsy
Feeling rustic? Lean in and add this artisan crafted menorah to your cart.
Etsy
We can never have enough candles, especially on Hanukkah! Write a personalized message to your bestie and enjoy the scents of the season.
Etsy
It was only a matter of time until the wooden dreidels of yore got a luxe upgrade.
Piecework
Is there anything more Jewish than busting out a random Yiddish word at the slightest inconvenience? No, there's not -- which is why these cocktail napkins are a tongue-in-cheek addition to any dinner party.
Bloomingdale's
Yes, this is a Barbiecore menorah. And yes, my life is now complete.
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This post has been updated.
Take our favorite celebrity BFF's, Taylor Swift and Blake Lively, and our favorite celebrity couple, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, and you truly get one big happy family. Earlier this summer, Blake and Ryan showed up to the Eras Tour to support the "Fortnight" singer, and on July 25, Taylor returned the love by making a rare lengthy post to her Instagram story.
Taylor Swift/Instagram
Taylor Swift posted a photo to her Instagram story featuring Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Shawn Levy — all of whom are involved in Deadpool & Wolverine, in theaters July 26!
"Over the past few years I have watched one of my best friends on the planet pour every bit of his heart, soul, sweat, time, energy, jokes, pain, joy, rebellion, darkness, and magic into this film," she says. "He's created the best work of his life, and this film feels like an actual joy portal, a wild escape from reality, and an abs sandwich."
After joking that Ryan, Blake, and Shawn randomly crashed her photo, Taylor continues, saying, "Shout out to Wade Wilson [the character played by Ryan Reynolds], aka my godkids' sperm donor!"
Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Fast Company
Ryan Reynolds had the funniest reaction, and told Deadline, "I'm going to need that on my gravestone, actually."
"Yeah, that is kind of it. She is the godparent to my daughters," the Deadpool actor continued. "That was very sweet. Not just sweet, that was, like, you could probably quantify a box office based on Taylor just doing something like that."
Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management/Noam Galai/Getty Images for Disney
In the past, Ryan Reynolds has been vocal about how much his kids (James, Inez, Betty, and Olin) love Taylor Swift, and the family's appearance at the Eras Tour even went viral!
"I think what's most exciting for them is that for the longest time they just thought Taylor's just like an aunt, like a friend of Mommy and Daddy that's very, very close, almost family," he says onThe Jess Cagle Show. "And then they went to a concert one day and were like, 'Ohhhhh, this isn't a hobby.'"
Read up on Blake Lively and Taylor Swift's friendship timeline for more!
Lead image via Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management
After years of white paint neglect, the fifth wall — AKA your ceiling — is finally having its moment. From playful wallpapers and brightly painted stripes to statement chandeliers that venture beyond the dining room, and modern woodwork and moulding details, ceilings are looking better than ever. Here is ceiling inspiration to bring home with you and spark your own creative designs!
For a more graphic maximalist look, this abstract wall mural does the trick in four different colors.
Go bold on the ceiling with this hand painted forest wallpaper that climbs from the ceiling and down the wall for a stunning conversation piece.
@addisonswonderland via Hygge & West
Kids rooms are a great place to play with pattern and spark kids imaginations as they drift off to sleep. This design by @addisonswonderland uses Hygge & West's soaring birds and floating clouds overhead.
@oakandpillar via Hygge & West
In another colorway for a completely different look, @oakandpillar used this Daydream Wallpaper in gold to pair with the gorgeous dark cabinetry here.
@cassmakeshome via Hygge & West
This ceiling installation by Cass Smith of @cassmakeshome is a dramatic statement in atop a neutral space.
Get creative with wallpaper on the ceiling and then a faux headboard to match!
Powder rooms are perfect for a playful wallpapered ceiling aesthetic.
Photowall
Using wallpaper to accentuate a beautiful molding is an easy yet impactful way to upgrade your decor.
Wayfair
Try two complementary wallpapers, like a floral and a graphic, for an eclectic look.
Wallpaper Tips:
These circus stripes from design retailer Maison Deux are so on trend right now and just so fun!
Farrow & Ball
Color drench your rooms from floor to ceiling with this dark stone color that feels natural and elegant and totally on trend.
Farrow & Ball
Pair complementary tones like this muted rose in Farrow & Ball Calamine and richer pink for a color blocked aesthetic.
@kyrosedesign via Clare Paint
Here's another cozy color-drenched look by @kyrosedesign.
Dulux
Painting Tips
Anthropologie
If your ceiling needs a little love, add a ceiling ring and a statement chandelier and you have a refreshing new look. Medallions are also surprisingly affordable for an elegant look.
Wayfair
This highly rated moulding looks great on the wall or the fifth wall.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
If your group chat is blowing up over the Bad Sisters premiere, or you're still reeling from that Outer Banks season 4 ending, never fear: these merry and bright December TV shows are here to save the day! (Don't worry though, they're not all about the holidays. Sometimes you need a break from even the best Christmas music!). Even though these programs offer wildly different things — from a gritty spy and life or death games to juicy reality dating and sitcom royalty — they're all the perfect choice for an evening in...especially if you've already watched all our Binge-Worthy November TV Shows ;).
Netflix
These couples are at a crossroads in their relationship: will they tie the knot and spend the rest of their lives together, or will they call it quits? It's a dilemma a lot of relationships face, and you'll have to tune in to find out how these couples handle the ultimate q.
The Ultimatum: Marry or Move On is hosted by Nick Lachey and Vanessa Lachey.
Netflix
This thriller stars Keira Knightley as Helen, a politician's wife who doubles as a spy — and feeds her organization all his deepest, darkest secrets. But when her secret lover is assassinated, Helen is forced to play a dangerous game of survival that involves everyone she holds close. This December TV show is also set against London at Christmas...you really can't go wrong!
Black Doves stars Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw, Sarah Lancashire, Andrew Buchan, Adeel Akhtar, Tracey Ullman, Finn Bennett, Luther Ford, Andrew Koji, Kathryn Hunter, Sam Troughton, and Ella Lily Hyland.
Michelle Watt/Bravo
The best TV shows always involve reality TV, and nobody's doing it like Southern Charm. Set in Charleston, South Carolina, these ladies are balancing their "bless your hearts" and sweet tea with plenty of drama. Although...when is dating not dramatic? Our favorite familiar faces are joined by some newcomers, bringing a whole new edge to the show we know and love.
Southern Charm Season 10 stars Venita Aspen, Leva Bonaparte, Craig Conover, Taylor Ann Green, Austen Kroll, Madison LeCroy, Rodrigo Reyes, Shep Rose, Jarrett “JT” Thomas, Salley Carson, Ryan Albert, and Molly O’Connell.
Jan Thijs/Prime Video
Despite the fact this new series revolves around a maple syrup empire, it's actually not related to Riverdale. Sorry to disappoint! This dark comedy is inspired by the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist, where a maple syrup farmer stole millions of dollars worth of syrup in order to save her livelihood. Yep, really.
The Sticky stars Margo Martindale, Chris Diamantopoulos, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Guillaume Cyr.
Netflix
We're in need of some life advice right now, TBH, and thank goodness The Fab Five are bringing it in the new season of Queer Eye. And alongside the emotional stories and heartfelt connections they make in Vegas, we'll see plenty of fabulous style. Because duh!
Queer Eye Season 9 stars includes Antoni Porowski, Jonathan Van Ness, Karamo Brown, Tan France, and Jeremiah Brent.
Netflix
Sitcom fans rejoice! This December TV show has some of the all-time greats sharing the screen, and we can't wait to rewatch these episodes 100 times. Multiple families believe one house will solve all their problems, and are all racing to sign on the dotted line. But, naturally, the beautiful 1920s Spanish-style home isn't as beautiful as it appears.
No Good Deed stars Linda Cardellini, O-T Fagbenle, Abbi Jacobson, Lisa Kudrow, Denis Leary, Poppy Liu, Teyonah Parris, Ray Romano, and Luke Wilson.
Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Hallmark Media
If your favorite scene from Jim Carrey's The Grinch is Molly Shannon and Christine Baranski's Christmas light competition, then this reality show is for you. Hallmark star Wes Brown introduces us to four families who have the best decorations around — and are sure to make your home feel even more festive.
Ready, Set, Glow is hosted by Wes Brown.
Bravo
The girls are back!! Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie reunite in an attempt to produce something the world desperately needs: an operatic performance based on their iconic "Sanasa." Say no more.
"I'm so excited to be doing this with Nicole on Peacock," Paris told E! News. "Nicole has been my best friend since we're 2 years old, every memory that I have is with her."
Paris & Nicole: The Encore stars Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie.
Netflix
In the face of loss and hardship, nobody comes together like the town of Virgin River. And despite the struggle, this season promises to be heartwarming and lovely too — Mel and Jack are finally getting married! Their nuptials are met with some family drama but don't worry romantics. True love is sure to win out.
Virgin River season 6 stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, Tim Matheson, Annette O’Toole, Colin Lawrence, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Zibby Allen, Sarah Dugdale, Marco Grazzini, Kai Bradbury, Kandyse McClure, and Mark Ghanime.
James Dittiger/Peacock
According to the official Peacock site, this dark rom-com answers the age-old question of "Is there something wrong with me?" with “Yes. There is. The problem is definitely you.” This December TV show follows Stephanie Hsu's Ruby, who's in for a rude awakening when she realizes all of her past sexual encounters are dying. Now she has to get to the bottom of it before anyone else bites the dust.
Laid stars Stephanie Hsu, Zosia Mamet, Michael Angarano, Tommy Martinez, Andre Hyland, Olivia Holt, David Denman, Finneas O’Connell, Chloe Fineman, Ettore “Big E” Ewen, and John Early.
Paul Morigi/Getty Images
The Kennedy Center Honors (a tribute ceremony that celebrates contributions to American performing art) always provide us with iconic moments — like Anna Kendrick fangirling over Beyoncé and Cynthia Erivo performing "Alfie" for Dionne Warwick. And this year promises to be no different.
The 2024 Kennedy Center Honors will honor Francis Ford Coppola, the Grateful Dead, Bonnie Raitt, Arturo Sandoval, and The Apollo.
JuHan Noh/Netflix
Despite the fact we all took games very seriously in elementary school, I'm sure we can all agree no game of Red Light, Green Light comes close to the one in Squid Game. And we're in for another round of nail-biting challenges when season 2 drops December 26. As for what to expect?
"As we all saw at the end of season 1, the main plot of season 2 will be revenge," actor Lee Jung Jae told All K-Pop. "The key figure who controlled the workings of the games in season 1 was Lee Byung-Hun...it seems that the two of us will be the central figures of this next story."
Squid Game season 2 stars Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, Gong Yoo, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, and Yang Dong-geun.
If you ask me, there's no December TV show as iconic as New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. It's going to be the perfect way to ring out 2024 (and welcome 2025). Although I have to admit, I don't know how they're going to top Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tyla's performances from last year!
Dick Clark's New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is hosted by Ryan Seacrest.
Which December TV show are you most looking forward to? Don't forget to add these 12 Cozy New Christmas Movies On Netflix, Prime Video, Hallmark Channel, & More This Year to your watchlist!
Holidays are a 1000 times better with kids. From baking holiday treats together to getting in the spirit with DIY holiday decorations, everything about the festive season is new and exciting as they wait for the big day to arrive. My daughter recently turned 10 and there have been so many wins (and a few duds) under the tree that I thought I'd share our favorite gifts over the years (that are great for *all* kids, not just girls). From interactive toys to educational kits to gifts that will get them away from screens and excited for the outdoors, these unique gifts will inspire creativity and spark their imaginations while being totally fun too!
My daughter has grown up with these bikes, from the Balance Bike to the Explore Bike with disc brakes, 7 gears and all-terrain tires, and she LOVES them. They're super light and glide easily, even the kickstand is so smooth. Woom Bikes are designed specifically for kids at every stage. They are pricier than other bike brands, but I find that they resell very quickly at a high price point so you essentially get your money back. Choose from an variety of colors and levels, and they even have a warehouse option for gently used Wooms.
This is on our holiday wish list because my friend and her son love them so much. These scooters are Swiss-designed, three-wheeled, lightweight and durable enough for well kids. They conveniently fold for easy carrying and perfect for traveling and on-the-go and when your kiddo doesn't feel like walking (but you do).
For your future podcaster, this cute, compact audio player plays stories, music, and educational tracks. Kids just pop in a card for what they want to listen too and they can use it with or without headphones. It's great for long car rides!
This game says 12+ but we've enjoyed it at 7+. This hilarious game is set in the woods and you need to survive together with firewood, shelter, spears, and forest food while keeping your wits! It's great to bring along on a camping trip!
Bug lovers can make cute clay bugs with 18 different colors of clay using an interactive app that shows kid-friendly step-by-step instructions. Think spiders, caterpillars, a praying mantis, snail, ladybug, and dragonfly to spark imaginations and build fine motor skills/spatial reasoning. Clay is nontoxic, wheat and gluten-free, nut-free, latex-free, and won't stick to hands.
Expose the kid in your life to new languages like Chinese and Spanish with these fun kits. My daughter has learned a few Spanish words from this game, and she still loves it. The magnetic wand reads the words as kids read along with visual cues.
We love a good old-timey gift with a modern edge. These handmade wooden slingshots are perfect for any kid who loves to get outside and play, no matter what the weather. Each slingshot comes with 20 colorful felt balls for gentle play.
Get them outdoors and exploring year-round with this magnifying glass, net, and bug exploration kit with carry bag. It has everything kids need to immerse themselves in exciting outdoor exploration.
For kids and parents who love the ELEPHANT & PIGGIE books as much as we do, these activity books are so much fun! My daughter loved his original We Are In An Art-ivity Book, which not only teaches so much about art but also encourages kids to create their own art show. In this theatrical event, readers discover how to be a set builder, prop maker, costume designer, playwright, and star of their own show.
Get kids interested in 3D printing and creating 3D art with this pen set designed with no hot parts, completely safe for kids aged 6+.
Kids can transform their voice with four hilarious voice-changing modes – Alien, Ghost, Monster, and Robot.
Kids are natural mad scientists and love to experiment, making this potion kit a kid pleaser every time.
Budding scientists will have fun while learning to hypothesize, measure, mix and observe through these 15+ creative science experiments. Best for ages 8 and up.
This is perfect for kids who love to get their hands dirty in a fun, tactile, science-y way.
This toy digital camera offers features like filters and frames, face recognition, a selfie timer and burst mode, plus an HD video option.
You know a good gift when the parents want to play too. These beautifully designed puzzles are perfect for building problem solving skills and creating artful displays. Kids follow one of the 40 pattern cards to design the brightly-colored blocks into varying motifs. The blocks can also be used to create endless freeform designs - so fun!
This cart can be anything your kid's imagination desires: a lemonade stand, a birthday cart, an advice stand a la Charlie Brown? It comes with open drawers in the back and a black board to name their business.
For the budding artist, this beautiful case of 36 already-sharpened colored pencils is a great gift for kids who love to color and create. The mix of classic colors and fresh hues makes all the kid drawings frame-worthy. Adults will love them too!
We've had so much pretend tea over the years and I can't get enough over this customized tea set, including cake stand, cupcakes, and cake slices to share with friends, family, and dolls! ADORABLE.
These cute doorway storefronts are perfect for pretend play and performance play. My daughter uses them for puppet theatre and I've hung one where I door used to be in our hallway closet. Choose from a camper food truck to a Boba tea house to a farmer's market for your kidpreneur. Swingly helps parents create play spaces that inspire kids to think creatively and grow through entrepreneurial play.
I'm a big fan of this brand and the woman behind it. Founded by a mom of four who wanted to see more representation in STEAM early development, this fun activity kit lets kids learn about coding and app development in an age-appropriate and culturally representative way.
We've ordered scoops and scoops of faux ice cream over the years and this one is delicious!
Create a mini nail salon at home. Mani/pedis are one of our favorite things to do on a rainy day. Pick up these darling 7-free polishes for your next salon-at-home day. The bow is actually a ring they can wear post pampering! Vegan and cruelty-free too.
Littles can play chef or mimic mom and dad with this adorable (and affordable) wooden stand mixer. Rotatable beaters, a swiveling mixer head, and on-and-off button create an experience like a real mixer. This one's a fun add to any play kitchen!
Bath toys are the best toys for bath, beach, muddy puddles, even snow! This floaty toy is made from 100% recycled plastic milk containers and safe for your little captain. No BPA, phthalates, or PVC. Mother Earth will thank you!
We are obsessed with these Paint by Sticker books as much as the kiddos in our life. From Outer Space to Mermaids & Magic, there's a theme for every kid passion. Get in a meditative zone with your little bud and choose from 10 sticker paintings, like a Mars rover, a space shuttle, and celestial bodies like Saturn, Jupiter, and the Sun. Plus, the back of each image includes a fascinating scientific fact *and* kids score glow-in-the-dark stickers!
Kids love to play animal doctor and this set with a plush dog and cat, pretend play vet medical equipment, and a tote bag is perfect for all their veterinarian dreams.
Get the whole family a gift with this cooperative whodunit game for ages 5 and up. A wily fox has stolen Mrs. Plumpert's pot pie and is high-tailing it to the foxhole! You'll work together to gather clues and eliminate possible suspects. Figure out who is the guilty fox before they escape!
Aviation fans can make a model airplane while learning about Amelia Earhart with this fun kit. The 40-page book features a short story, facts and jokes about Earhart and aviation, along with a biplane wood model kit, art supplies, and a disposable apron.
This interactive book written by our pal Jess Ekstrom is perfect for creative tweens and teens who want to be inspired to make a difference in the world.
Check out our Gingerbread Decorating Class to share with kids and subscribe to our email newsletter for more holiday gifting ideas. Follow us on Pinterest too for tons of holiday decor and recipe inspiration!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
