What's a nice, respectful way to acknowledge a Jewish friend and their past holiday, having already past?

Question

Please no dis-respectful answers...I won't be amused! Thanks! D'n'D

Answer 1

You should just ask them if they had a nice Hannukah and whether they had had any family over for it. Hannukah is not a major holiday - it is a minor holiday which had some gift-elements attached to it for the children, who feel left out at Christmas otherwise. So it is not meaningful for adults - especially if they do not have young children.
Passover and Rosh HaShanah are usually more significant, but you should ask your friend which holidays his family celebrates and you should find out the dates for those - they are on a lunar calendar, so the dates change each year. Check out the links below. Some folks do not really celebrate any of the holidays, but it would be nice to wish him a nice holiday when they are coming up - since he gets to hear a solid month of "Happy Holidays" from everybody else this time of year ;).

Answer 2

Honesty is always the best policy.

"I'm sorry - I didn't realize Hanukkah had already passed. I hope the holiday was joyous for you. I recently learned that...."

Then go on to tell what you learned about the Jewish holiday calendar.

This advice doesn't apply just to Jewish holidays. Learning about the customs of another culture, whether it is The Day of Atonement for Jews or the Day of the Dead for some Hispanics, is a way to fit better into your own world. Reflecting on our own blessings and attempting to put right your behavior and roles in the world are worthy endeavors, regardless of your origins.

Answer 3

I've always had many Jewish friends and included them in all my holiday social events. Our difference weren't discussed, we just celebrated. I don't recall any uncomfortable moments because there was a lot of genuine affection and good cheer. So, here's hoping you all have a happy holiday season.

Answer 4

Just send them a hanukkah card and write something funny on the inside as to why you forgot about the holiday.

Answer 5

If it is only Hannukkah, do not fret. It isn't the end of the world! Send them a polite card (or a funny one!) and give them a call. As a Jew, many people forget my holidays. But as long as I remember them, I find it okay.

Answer 6

You may offer an apology to your friend for forgetting something that may be important to him and offer a belated nicety for the past holiday.

Answer 7

I would just ask if they had a nice holiday and ask what they did to celebrate.

Answer 8

Offer an apology, i'm sure they will understand.