The Spirit of Hanukkah: Festivities from New York to Jerusalem

As we embrace the magic of the holiday season in 2024, celebrations reflect the diversity of cultures, traditions, and faiths that define this special time of year. Winter is a special time to many but especially to the Christians and Jews. This year, we partake in many celebrations around the world from European Christmas markets, New year celebrations  in big cities like Sydney and New York to Menorah lighting ceremonies in the US and Israel.  

Hannukah is a Jewish holiday that symbols resilience and miracles. This year a rare event happens Christmas and Hannukah coincide! From December 25 (Christmas day) to January 2. Hannukah is celebrated by lighting the menorah candles each evening with family and friends and eating Latkes and Sofganiot (doughnuts without a hole).  

Hannukah in New York City 

New York is home to approximately 1.4 million Jews therefore it holds many extravagant Hannukah celebrations. This year’s highlights include the world's largest Hanukkah menorah in Manhattan's Grand Army Plaza at 59th Street. It will be lit for all 8 nights after sunset. For shopping, visitors can explore Hanukkah markets and experience festive activities, including food stalls offering traditional Jewish delicacies like Latkes, Sufganiot, and kugel. The city’s streets are often adorned with beautiful holiday decorations, and in many neighborhoods, like Brooklyn's Borough Park, local menorah lightings add to the festive atmosphere. 

Throughout New York, there will be performances and events at cultural institutions, such as the Jewish Museum and the Museum at Eldridge Street, where visitors can learn about the history of Hanukkah and its cultural significance. Local synagogues also host special services and community gatherings, allowing everyone to celebrate together. 

Hannukah in Israel 

With Jews being the majority of the population in Israel Hannukah is celebrated all around! From local bakeries selling latkes and sufganiot to the menorah lightings in every local synagogue. However, it is celebrated specially in the western wall of Jerusalem. People come to the western wall to pray during the holidays, write their prayers on paper and watch the menorah lightning at night.  

In big cities like Tel Aviv Hannukah  

Works cited: 

Reporter, J. C. “Jewish Population of New York Reaches 1.4 Million.” Www.thejc.com, www.thejc.com/news/usa/jewish-population-of-new-york-reaches-14-million-rj1jw48x. 

Rossilynne Skena Culgan, and Christina Izzo. “Best Hanukkah Events in NYC for Eights Days of Fun.” Time out New York, 13 Dec. 2024, www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/hanukkah-events-in-new-york-city?package_page=35285, https://doi.org/102974638/400/225. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.