Chanooka occurs between December 18-25. They believed in God and refused to worship the Greek idols. There is an additional candle each day, which serves to light the others. The candles stand for a miracle in which a single can of olive oil used for lighting the Menorah, that was left in the Temple after its desacration, lasted eight days. Both Christmas and Chanooka are believed to originate from the same ancient holiday.
People arount the world celebrated, in most ancient times, the winter solstice.
Some people were afraid that the sun will disappear with the shortening days.