Among Sephardic communities in the past, the Shabbat of Hanukkah was known as Shabbat Halbasha (the Shabbat of Clothing the Poor). People brought clothes to be distributed to the synagogue. From the 16th century onward, clothing needy students was a particular focus of the Jewish community of Izmir – Turkey.
In Izmir, Shabbat Albasha was celebrated as a feast. Seven days before the feast, all the Gabbais of the community would gather to plan the activities and entertainment. Announcements were posted throughout the city, inviting cantors, poets, musicians, and masters of humor and wit.

On Shabbat evening, all the Gabbais would wait at the doors of the synagogues. Each person arriving at the synagogue would bring clothing packages to be distributed as donations. The cantors and poets waiting at the door would greet each person with special attention, reciting songs and poems in their honor. The larger the package, the greater the honor bestowed. The community would gather in the streets, cheer and applaud creating a lively atmosphere in the city.

On Shabbat morning, after Tefila , the congregation would gather at the synagogue of the Mahzikey Aniim institution. On that day, everyone would joyfully sing special Bekashot. After the Minha, they would sing songs, listen to humorists and enjoy various forms of entertainment until evening, fully experiencing Shabbat Halbasha.