What is Hanukkah, when is it celebrated and what do people do?

A boy lights a menorah during Hanukkah (Rabbi Elchonon Feldman/PA)

Hanukkah is the Jewish festival of lights which brings joy to communities both near and far.

The celebration involves prayer, food and the lighting of an eight-armed candelabra called a menorah. There are games and gatherings of family and friends and the wider community is also invited to join in.