You may be familiar with those chocolate coins that have menorahs stamped on them, and come in shiny gold foil wrappers. These coins are in fact gelt and they make their appearance around the holidays.

“Gelt” refers to both real money that is given out during the Hanukkah season, and to those little chocolate coins. Both are part of a long-standing tradition in which the custom is to give money, rather than gifts. Gelt celebrates:

Charity. It acknowledges the freedom to share material wealth, and is also a nod to giving extra tips.
Remembrance. Many people eat chocolate gelt as a way to pay tribute to the history of Hanukkah.
Rewards for children. Gelt is given to children to celebrate their studies of the Torah, and as special treats.

The taste of gelt is hard to forget—it’s a waxy type of chocolate that doesn’t quite melt in your mouth. However, gelt is another sensory holiday tradition that lends to feelings of ritual, family, and nostalgia, and for many people, this time of year wouldn’t be the same without it.