Planning Cherished Holidays with Adult Children and Grandchildren


Hanukkah dining table setting

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness and creating lasting memories with family. Yet for many adult parents, the dynamics of Jewish holiday celebrations undergo a transformation as their children grow into adults and start families of their own.

Planning a holiday that caters to adult children and grandchildren requires thoughtful consideration and a touch of creativity. In this guide, we explore helpful tips and ideas to make your holiday celebration, especially during Chanukah, a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Host with Heart

Consider the preferences and traditions of your adult children when planning your Jewish holiday gathering. Communicate openly about expectations and preferences. If your adult children have a strong connection to Chanukah traditions, plan activities that honor those customs, like lighting the menorah or playing traditional games.

Thoughtful Gifting

Be mindful of gift-giving etiquette with adult children and grandchildren. Discuss expectations and consider opting for meaningful, experience-based gifts. For Chanukah, instead of one gift for each night, consider a fun experience for the whole family, like a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Chanukah dishes together or a family weekend getaway.

Macaroons decorated with Star of David for the Jewish holiday celebrations

Delectable Food Delights

Accommodate dietary preferences and plan a menu that caters to both the nostalgia of family favorites and the evolving tastes of the younger children. Incorporate traditional Chanukah foods into your holiday menu, like latkes and sufganiyot (donuts), while also including options for any dietary restrictions or preferences. Try a new spin on the traditional latke with these cheesy white and sweet potato latkes.

Mindful Budgeting:

Establish a clear budget for your holiday party to avoid financial strain. Discuss budget expectations with adult children to ensure everyone is on the same page. Plan your Chanukah celebration to fit within a budget, focusing on the joy of being together rather than extravagant spending. Consider cost-effective activities like crafting homemade decorations or creating a family recipe book.

girl makes diy Chanukah candle holder

Engaging Activities for Little Ones:

Ensure that your holiday celebration is enjoyable for the youngest family members by planning age-appropriate activities and maintaining a comfortable environment. Organize a Chanukah-themed crafting station where your grandchildren can make their own menorahs or dreidels. Incorporate interactive storytelling to share the significance of Chanukah.

As the dynamics of family gatherings evolve, planning holidays with adult children and grandchildren becomes an art of balancing tradition with new customs.

By fostering open communication, embracing meaningful experiences and incorporating cherished Chanukah traditions, you can create a holiday celebration that brings joy and connection to every generation.


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The Associated is a home for everyone in the Baltimore Jewish community. We offer several email lists to help people find a community, engage with their peers and support Jewish journeys around the world.

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