In evaluating how happy a holiday Chanukah really is, we need first to establish what true happiness is and then evaluate to what extent Chanukah fulfills the criteria of happiness. Ideal happiness is unadulterated by negative side effects. Ideal happiness is based on accomplishment and achievement. Ideal happiness involves the total mind or self. Ideal happiness is hard to achieve alone.
Ideal happiness involves something of meaning, importance or value.
Ideal Happiness is sustained. Fleeting pleasures are clearly not ideal happiness. The state of happiness we look forward to is an everlasting one. Chanukah's joy has certainly been sustained. It has been so strong that the celebration has continued for over 2,000 years.