Hanukkah Flowers in NYC: Meaningful Blooms for the Festival of Lights

Hanukkah brings light, warmth and gathering into the darkest part of the year. Alongside the menorah, latkes and family traditions, flowers are a beautiful way to honor the holiday, brighten New York City apartments and offer thoughtful gifts to loved ones.

At Alaric Flower Design, we create elegant blue and white arrangements, modern winter designs and refined orchids that feel perfectly suited to Hanukkah in Manhattan. This guide explains the history behind the holiday, this year’s dates, the best flowers to choose and how to style them for home or gifting.

When Is Hanukkah This Year?

In 2025, Hanukkah begins at sundown on Sunday, December 14 and ends at nightfall on Monday, December 22. The first candle on the hanukkiah is lit on the evening of December 14, and one additional candle is lit on each of the eight nights.

Because Jewish holidays follow the Hebrew calendar, the dates shift each year on the Gregorian calendar, but Hanukkah always begins on the 25th of Kislev and lasts for eight nights.

A Short History of Hanukkah

Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean revolt. According to tradition, a small amount of consecrated oil, enough to burn for one day, miraculously lasted for eight days while new oil was prepared. This is why light and oil are central symbols of the holiday.

If you would like to read more about the history and customs of Hanukkah, these resources are helpful:

• My Jewish Learning: Hanukkah overview
• Jewish Virtual Library: History and traditions
• Wikipedia: Hanukkah

Why Flowers Work So Well For Hanukkah

Flowers are not part of the original ritual of Hanukkah, but they fit beautifully with the modern way many New Yorkers celebrate. Thoughtfully chosen florals can:

• Reflect the traditional colors of the holiday, especially blue and white
• Bring softness and light into compact city spaces
• Offer a respectful, uplifting alternative to very festive or Christmas themed decor
• Serve as a meaningful gift when visiting friends or family

Best Flowers and Colors for Hanukkah

When designing for Hanukkah, we usually work with a palette of whites, creams, soft blues, fresh greens and silver accents. Here are some of the flowers and materials that work especially well:

White and Cream Flowers

• Roses for timeless elegance and softness
• Hydrangea for fullness and a cloud like feel on the table
• Calla lilies for modern, architectural lines
• Orchids for long lasting, refined luxury

Blue Accents

• Blue delphinium or blue hydrangea to echo the classic blue of Hanukkah decor
• Subtle blue toned vases, ribbons or candles to carry the color through in a sophisticated way

Winter Greens and Silver Details

• Eucalyptus for a cool, modern aroma and flowing shape
• Evergreen sprigs used sparingly for structure and texture
• Silver brunia or dusty miller for a soft grey silver contrast

The goal is not to recreate Christmas decor, but to create something that feels clean, calm and bright in a very Hanukkah specific way.

How to Style Hanukkah Flowers at Home

In Manhattan homes and apartments, space is precious. Here are a few ways to incorporate flowers without overwhelming the room:

• Next to the menorah – a low, compact arrangement that does not compete with the candles
• On the dining table – a long, low centerpiece that stays below eye level so conversation flows easily
• In the entryway – a welcoming arrangement that sets the tone as guests arrive
• On a windowsill – a single orchid or small vase looking out over the city

Choose flowers with a gentle fragrance so the room feels fresh without overpowering the food on the table.

Thoughtful Hanukkah Flower Gifts in NYC

Flowers are a beautiful way to say chag sameach to friends, family, colleagues or hosts. Some gift ideas include:

• White orchid plants for long lasting elegance in a home or office
• Blue and white mixed arrangements for hosts and family gatherings
• Modern winter whites for clients or professional settings
• Subscription style deliveries during the season for a multi night gesture

At Alaric Flower Design, we hand deliver across Manhattan and can tailor each piece to the recipient, from minimal and contemporary to soft and romantic.

Serving Manhattan for Hanukkah and Beyond

Our studio on the Upper West Side is uniquely placed to serve Hanukkah celebrations across Manhattan, including the Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Midtown, Downtown, Tribeca, SoHo and Chelsea. We work with apartments, townhouses, offices, hotels and restaurants to create arrangements that feel seasonal, appropriate and distinctly New York.

If you would like a bespoke Hanukkah arrangement, a series of deliveries or flowers that coordinate with your tableware and interior, our team is happy to advise on flowers, scale and budget.

Alaric Flower Design
W 70th St, New York, NY 10023
Phone: (212) 308-3794
Website: www.alaricflowers.com

Hanukkah Flowers FAQ

What colors are most appropriate for Hanukkah flowers?

White, cream, soft blue, green and silver accents are the most common choices. They echo the tones of traditional Hanukkah decor and create a calm, elegant look.

Which flowers work best for Hanukkah arrangements?

White roses, hydrangea, orchids, calla lilies and blue delphinium are all excellent choices. They combine well with eucalyptus, winter greens and subtle silver accents.

Are strongly scented flowers a good idea for Hanukkah?

We recommend choosing flowers with a gentle fragrance so they do not overpower the food on the table. Roses, hydrangea and orchids are usually a safe choice.

Can I send Hanukkah flowers if I am not Jewish?

Yes. Sending thoughtful, tastefully designed flowers for Hanukkah is widely seen as a warm and respectful gesture.

Do you offer Hanukkah flower delivery across Manhattan?

Yes. Alaric Flower Design offers hand delivery across Manhattan, including the Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Midtown, Downtown, Tribeca, SoHo and Chelsea.