Once a year, people get together to celebrate the Festival of Lights. Sure, you’re familiar with families coming together to light a menorah at this time, but there’s so much to the religious holiday you may not know. In fact, when you dive into the history of Hanukkah, what each tradition means and how it’s celebrated across the world, you may just learn a thing or two that will surprise you. Including the spelling — spoiler alert: both Hanukkah and Chanukah are correct!

The Jewish Festival of Lights begins on December 10 and ends on December 18 this year. So once you’ve got your blue, white and silver Hanukkah decorations and menorah candles picked out, read up on the story of Hanukkah and get ready to eat some delicious latkes. Whether this is your first time celebrating, you’re brushing up on holiday knowledge or you just want some fun fact to drop as you light the first candle, here are some fascinating Hanukkah facts that you probably haven’t heard before.