Hanukkah Harry's Gifts

Overview

The character of Hanukkah Harry might have started as a modern, tongue-in-cheek creation, but he's still beloved by children! After all, he's a friendly bearded man in long robes who bears gifts! Here are some tips to bring his festive spirit to your gathering.

Age

Toddler, Preschool, School-age, Tweens

Number of Players

3 to 4, 5 to 10, 10 to 20

Team Division

Every man for himself (individual players)

Competitiveness

Non-competitive (cooperative)

Difficulty

Easy peasy (fun and simple)

Indoor or Outdoor

Either

Space Needed

Small (a clearable open space the size of a 1-car garage)

Noise Level

Quiet

Mess Factor

Clean and tidy

Prep Time

10 - 20 minutes

Game Time Length

15 - 30 minutes

Supplies

1 fake beard (optional)

1 blue robe with many pockets

An assortment of silly trinkets and gifts

1 adult with a great sense of humor

Setup

1. Load up Hanukkah Harry's robe with little trinkets: candy coins, tops, little balls, packs of crayons, puzzles, etc.
2. Have Hanukkah Harry dress with a fake beard (optional) and robe.
3. Have Hanukkah Harry in a place where he is easily accessible to all.

How to Play

1. Have Hanukkah Harry circulate around the room, or stand in one place where children can find him.
2. As children approach have Harry ask them to tell him a joke, do a little performance, or sing a little song.
3. Harry will then give a gift from one of his pockets, according to how he rates the performance.

Tips

1. Make sure that Harry is fun, friendly, and non-threatening. Harry should be warm and inviting.
2. Everyone should get a prize... even if the jokes are bad!