How to Play Dreidel: A Fun Chanukah Tradition

How to Play Dreidel: A Fun Chanukah Tradition

The dreidel game is a cherished Chanukah activity, filled with fun, laughter, and a touch of friendly competition. It’s easy to learn, enjoyable for all ages, and carries with it a special piece of Jewish history. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play dreidel, so you and your family can join in the fun this Chanukah season!

What is a Dreidel?

A dreidel is a four-sided spinning top, with each side displaying a Hebrew letter. These letters stand for “Nes Gadol Haya Sham,” which translates to “A great miracle happened there,” referring to the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the Chanukah story. In Israel, the dreidel letters are slightly different to mean “A great miracle happened here.”

What You Need to Play

To play the dreidel game, you’ll need:

• A dreidel (you can find beautiful options here)
• Some tokens (traditionally, chocolate gelt, nuts, or small coins)
• A group of friends or family members ready to have fun!

How to Set Up the Game

1. Gather Tokens: Each player starts with an equal number of tokens. You can use chocolate gelt, candies, pennies, or anything small that can act as the game pieces.
2. Initial Pot: Each player puts one token into the center to create the “pot.” This will be the prize everyone is playing for.
3. Choose a Starting Player: Decide who goes first. The turns will move clockwise from the starting player.

How to Play Dreidel

Each player takes turns spinning the dreidel. When the dreidel stops spinning, the letter that lands facing up determines the player's action:

• Nun (נ) - "Nothing": The player does nothing, and the game moves to the next person.
• Gimel (ג) - "All": The player wins the entire pot! Everyone adds a new token to the pot to keep the game going.
• Hey (ה) - "Half": The player takes half of the pot (if the pot has an odd number, round up).
• Shin (ש) - "Put In": The player must add one token to the pot.

Winning the Game

The game continues until one player has won all the tokens. You can play as many rounds as you like, or until you run out of gelt and snacks!

Dreidel Game Variations

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few variations to keep the game interesting:

1. Speed Dreidel: Players spin their dreidels simultaneously. The first to land on Gimel wins the round.
2. Dreidel Relay: Play as teams, where each team member has to win a round before passing the dreidel to the next player.
3. Custom Tokens: Use different types of tokens for more fun—stickers, candies, or colorful beads can add variety.

Where to Find Dreidels and Gelt

If you’re looking to add some extra flair to your dreidel game this year, check out these fantastic options available at Set With Style:

1. Classic Wooden Dreidels – Perfect for a traditional game night!
2. Chocolate Gelt Packs – The most delicious way to play.
3. Colorful Acrylic Dreidels – Brighten up your game with vibrant, modern designs.
4. Dreidel Game Sets – All-in-one sets that include dreidels, gelt, and more.
5. Personalized Dreidels – Make your game extra special with custom dreidels.

Why Do We Play Dreidel?

The dreidel game has historical roots dating back to a time when Jewish people were forbidden from studying Torah. To disguise their learning, children would play with tops when soldiers approached, hiding their studies. Today, the dreidel game is a fun way to celebrate perseverance and the miracle of Chanukah.

Happy spinning, and may the luck of Gimel be with you!