The short answer: choose blue and white, or an all-white design, and leave out anything that says Christmas. Flowers are a warm gift for a Hanukkah host or for family and friends who celebrate, and a short, sincere card is all you need. This guide covers what to send, when to send it and what to write.
The colours of Hanukkah
Blue and white are the traditional colours of the holiday, and they make choosing simple. Silver is a lovely accent, since it echoes the look of many menorahs and holiday tables.
Our Miracle's Light Hanukkah Bouquet is made for the occasion. Blue iris stands out against white roses and white Asiatic lilies, accented with lush greens, silver pinecones and a blue and silver organza ribbon, all in a clear glass ginger jar vase.
Other flowers that suit the holiday
- All-white designs. White flowers look calm and elegant on any table and go with any decor. See our white flowers for roses, lilies and more.
- Orchids. A potted orchid keeps blooming long after the eight nights are over, so it is a good choice for someone who likes a lasting gift. See our orchids, and our guide on how to care for an orchid.
- Blue roses. A bold choice for someone who enjoys colour. Our Blue Rose Arrangement is one dozen blue roses in a vase, and the colour fits the holiday well.
What to leave out
Many winter flowers are designed with Christmas in mind, and a thoughtful Hanukkah gift avoids that look. It is best to skip:
- Poinsettias, which are closely tied to Christmas.
- Red and green colour schemes.
- Holly, candy canes and glass ball ornaments.
- Cards that say "Merry Christmas" or use a general Christmas greeting.
Our Christmas and winter holiday collection includes the Miracle's Light bouquet alongside many Christmas designs, so check the description before you choose.
When to send Hanukkah flowers
Hanukkah lasts for eight days and nights, and its dates move from year to year because it follows the Hebrew calendar. That gives you some room to choose your day.
- For a dinner or party: send the flowers the day before, so your host can place them before guests arrive.
- For the first night: plan to have them arrive that day or the day before, since the first candle is lit in the evening.
- For family who keep Shabbat: Hanukkah always includes at least one Friday night and Saturday. If the family observes Shabbat, avoid a Saturday delivery, and ask whether a Friday arrival works for them.
If you are not sure about the family's practice, it is perfectly fine to ask. People are usually glad that you thought of it.
Keeping flowers safe near the menorah
A menorah is lit every night of the holiday, often on a table or in a window. If you are giving flowers to place on the same table, a quick reminder helps. Keep flowers, greens and ribbon well away from the candles, and away from any heat source. A sideboard or the far end of the table is a better spot, and the flowers will last longer away from the heat.
Fresh flowers last longest with clean water and trimmed stems. Our guide on how to keep a bouquet fresh longer has simple steps to pass along.
What about gift baskets?
Food is a big part of the holiday, but if the family keeps kosher, food gifts can be tricky. Unless you know what they prefer, flowers or a plant are the simpler choice. If you do want to send a basket, check the items on the product page, ask the family first, and keep in mind that our gift baskets are made to order and need at least one day's notice.
What to write on a Hanukkah card
Every order includes a free handwritten card. A few words are all it takes:
- Happy Hanukkah! Wishing you eight nights of light and joy.
- Thinking of you all this Hanukkah. Enjoy every night together.
- Thank you for having us. Wishing you a happy and bright Hanukkah.
- Chag Sameach to you and your family, with love from all of us.
- Wishing you warmth, light and good company this holiday season.
If you are not sure of the spelling, any common form is fine. "Hanukkah" and "Chanukah" are both correct. Sign with your full name, or your family's or company's name, so they know who sent the gift. For a client or a coworker, "Wishing you a happy Hanukkah" is warm and professional.
Sending flowers to a Hanukkah host or to family
Every flower arrangement is hand-arranged in our Mississauga studio. We offer same-day delivery of fresh flowers across the GTA, and delivery is free on orders over $50. To talk through colours or a specific delivery time, call us at 905-677-9999, or see our delivery map and zones. Celebrating Diwali as well? See our guide to Diwali flowers and gifts.