Dreidels

Chanukah Dreidels for Games, Gifts & Celebrations

A game of dreidel brings family and friends together for Chanukah fun. Whether you are choosing a few dreidels for home or preparing for a classroom celebration, consider who will use them and whether they are intended for playing or display.

Choosing Your Dreidels

• For family games: Choose wooden or plastic dreidels with clearly marked letters and a comfortable grip.

• For schools and parties: Check the quantity in each multipack so you have enough for your guests or students.

• For an entertaining gift: Consider light-up or musical styles, checking the product details for battery requirements and age recommendations.

• For a decorative gift: Explore crystal, metal and other artistic designs. Check whether the piece is intended for spinning or display.

What Do the Letters on a Dreidel Mean?

Outside Israel, a traditional dreidel bears four Hebrew letters: nun, gimmel, hei and shin. They stand for Nes Gadol Hayah Sham, meaning “A great miracle happened there.”

Dreidels used in Israel commonly replace shin with pei, changing the phrase to Nes Gadol Hayah Po—“A great miracle happened here.”

How to Play Dreidel

Give each player an equal number of counters, such as chocolate coins or game tokens. Each player places one counter into the center pot, then players take turns spinning.

Whenever the pot is empty, everyone adds another counter. Agree before starting how to divide an odd-numbered pot, since family rules vary.

Complete Your Chanukah Celebration

Pair your dreidels with treats from our Chanukah candy and nosh collection, or explore the full Chanukah Store for more holiday essentials and gifts.