Generally speaking, lighting Chanukah candles is more time-sensitive and mikva’ot are open until relatively late, so you should ideally light candles at home and then immerse afterwards. However, if this isn't practical for you, you can immerse first (as early as you can) and then light as soon as you return home.

Another factor to consider is the importance of pirsumei nisa, publicizing the miracle of Chanukah, and that this is best accomplished in the home with husband and wife and the entire family lighting candles together. For the couple, lighting together also deepens the marital connection and  emphasizes the Jewish home as the central setting of the mitzvah of candlelighting. If you plan to delay candle-lighting until all family members are home, it might make sense to go to the mikveh before lighting.

You can prepare as usual for immersion, though you may find that performing more of the preparations earlier in the day - or even the day before for things like nail care and hair removal - can take pressure off the holiday night.

Chanukah same'ach! Please write back with any further questions.

This response was updated 11 December, 2025.