The first day of Hanukkah is coming early this year, December 11th. Hanukkah represents the rededication of the Temple after the first revolt against the Hellenistic empire. They found only enough ritually pure olive oil to light the menorah for one day, but the supply miraculously lasted eight days. The eight candles of the menorah represent these eight days and the middle candle is used to light the other candles. One candle is lit everyday of Hanukkah alternating right and left, beginning on the right.

We made this Hanukkah project using 9 of the LEDs from your Discover Electronics kit. It makes for a really colorful project. Place 9 LEDs evenly spaced across one side of the breadboard (about 5 spaces apart) and bend them so they are directed outward. The resistor values can vary based on the color of the LED but around 220ohms should be fine.

Download the menorah pdf and print it on heavyweight paper or paste onto heavier paper. Cut it out and then cut holes for the candle flames. Paste a piece of thinner paper behind the front panel of the menorah to diffuse the LEDs. Fold it along the dotted lines and place it around the breadboard.

Happy Hanukkah and stay tuned for our Christmas tree project!