You can keep it very simple and sincere. In English, “Happy Hanukkah” is always correct and appreciated.
Basic greetings
The most common options are:
- “Happy Hanukkah!” – works in any context, whether you are Jewish or not.
- “Hanukkah Sameach!” – Hebrew for “Happy Hanukkah.”
- “Chag Sameach!” – Hebrew for “Happy holiday,” also appropriate during Hanukkah.
When and how to say it
You can say these greetings:
- Any time during the eight days of the holiday, whether at the beginning or in the middle.
- In person, in a text, or in a card, ideally with a warm, personal note if you know the person well (for example, wishing them “peace and light” or “a joyful Festival of Lights”).
If you want to add more
If you want to be a bit more specific or warm, you could say:
- “Wishing you and your family a warm and joyous Festival of Lights.”
- “May your Hanukkah be filled with light, joy, and time with loved ones.”
As a non‑Jewish person, just being friendly and respectful is enough; people will generally be pleased you took the time to acknowledge their holiday.