The lead sheet for “Oh Hanukkah” is available for download as a PDF.

Oh Hanukkah

“Oh Hanukkah” (originally the Yiddish “Chanukah, Oy Chanukah”) was written in the early 20th century by Mordkhe Rivesman, with English lyrics later adapted by Samuel E. Goldfarb. Emerging from Eastern European Jewish communities, it became popular in America through Yiddish theater and school songbooks, reflecting the era’s immigrant cultural life. Its buoyant melody and references to dreidels and latkes helped root Hanukkah celebrations in song.

The tune gained wider recognition through recordings by artists such as The Barry Sisters and later children’s choirs and pop performers. Often sung at lively tempos, it invites clapping and communal joy. Though simple in structure, “Oh Hanukkah” carries warm nostalgia, linking generations through a festive chorus that feels both playful and proud.

Lead Sheet

The sheet music below is a lead sheet containing the chords and melody of the piece.

Download “Oh Hanukkah” (1 page) as a PDF

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