9 Creative Themes (and Gift Ideas!) to Get You Through All 8 Nights of Hanukkah

POPSUGAR Photography | Blake Smith
POPSUGAR Photography | Blake Smith
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Some kids who celebrate Hanukkah feel like they are missing out on a mountain of gifts, but it's really their parents who have it hard — they have to come up with exciting surprises for not one day but eight. Every family has their own traditions, but some balance out the presents by saving a "big" gift for a particular night while distributing smaller and more economical treats throughout the remaining days. In order to make the anticipation last, parents have to get creative, which can be draining — especially when kiddos aren't appreciative of sock night or other low-key days. One way to make the excitement last throughout the extended week is by coming up with a theme for the celebration and choosing eight gifts around that activity or fandom. Some parents might plan to spend less or more over the course of the week, so we've provided a variety of prices that can get you started and will surely please every little one on your list.

01
For the Barbie Lover

For the Barbie Lover

If this is the year that you are surprising your little one with a Barbie Dream House ($270) or Sparkle Modern Mansion ($137), build up anticipation with these fantastic finds to keep the smiles coming every night.

09
For the Mini Master Chef

For the Mini Master Chef

Encourage your little foodie in the making with an array of treats from a Kid Kraft Uptown Espresso Kitchen ($226, originally $238) to smaller surprises that will get him or her excited for time in the kitchen.

10

Kid Chef Cookbook ($11, originally $16)

17
For the World Traveler

For the World Traveler

Whether you have a big trip planned or happen to hit the road pretty frequently, use this holiday season not only to get your little one excited for their upcoming adventures but also as a time to get them things that could come in handy, like their own personalized spinner luggage ($79-$103, originally $100-$130).

25
For the Musically Inclined

For the Musically Inclined

Foster their budding talent by encouraging their love of music this holiday season with ideas like a drum set for kids ($185).

33
For the Shopkins Obsessed

For the Shopkins Obsessed

Nothing will make your Shopkins fan more excited than eight nights of gear — and even a bicycle ($80) — revolving around this fun little world.

41
For the Star Wars Fanatic

For the Star Wars Fanatic

Just imagine your little one exploring the dark side in a Darth Vader tepee tent ($89, originally $129) after eight nights of Star Wars surprises.

49
For the Animal Enthusiast

For the Animal Enthusiast

If your child is desperate for a pet but isn't going to be getting a living fury friend this year, consider surprising them with other gifts that honor their love of animals, like the Lego Creator Expert Pet Shop ($146).

57
For the Minecraft Addicted

For the Minecraft Addicted

It doesn't matter if you totally don't get their obsession with Minecraft, you can still get in on the excitement by picking out a range of special items like this Minecraft playset ($100, originally $130).

65
For the American Girl Doll Fan

For the American Girl Doll Fan

Even if it feels like your American Girl doll lover has it all, you know she would be thrilled for more! And with new options, like Melody's recording studio ($250), you won't run out of fresh options.