Step 1 : Introduction to the question "How long does Hanukkah last?"
...Hanukkah is a world-wide celebration held in remembrance of the re-dedication of Jerusalem's Second Temple. Included in the celebrations is the belief that one day's worth of oil burned for one week at the time of the re-dedication. Celebrations of Hanukkah begin with the menorah lighting each evening. The eight candles of the menorah represent the eight nights encompassing the Miracle of the Oil. The celebration lasts for seven days and eight nights. Source: Reference.com