Would it be okay if, next to the Christmas Bush, I put up a dinosaur menorah?

The Samets, who live in Sedgefield, have a collection of these candelabrums — called menorahs — whose religious ties go back thousands of years.

“Each has its own story,” said Joan Samet, whose larger collection of historical materials relating to Judaism ranges from spinning tops called dreidels to commissioned works of art that cover the walls of their home.

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The Samets’ preparation — replicated in Jewish households around the world beginning tonight — includes blessings, gifts, frying latkes (potato pancakes), having dinner together and perhaps playing a game of dreidels.

The menorah is the celebration’s centerpiece.

“The one I like the most is a brontosaurus, and the candles go up its spine,” said Rabbi Jerome Fox of B’nai Israel Synagogue in High Point. He has a collection of 12, not including the ones he’s given away. “It was a featured catalog piece. Technically, it’s not kosher because all the candles have to be on the same level except the servant candle … but I think it’s adorable.”

Happy Hanukkah, everybody.

A.