It wasn't that long ago that most gentiles had never heard of Channukah. Now it's almost mainstream with Channukah parties at non-Jewish schools, an annual reception at 10 Downing Street, the Trafalgar Square party and regular references on radio and TV.

And, as many of us like to say, how much better to have eight special days rather than the measly one of Christmas. But whether it's Channukah, Christmas, Winterval or even the Seinfeld-derived Festivus, it's a time for children of all ages to have fun. Enjoy.