Chanukah begins Dec. 6 and for the first time ever, a giant 7-foot menorah will stand at the center of a celebration at the Tempe Public Library.
Local dignitaries, including Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell, will take part in a lighting ceremony that begins at 5 p.m. in a celebration will combine ancient traditions with a unique and modern twist.
Temple Emanuel’s youth choir will perform and there’s a free raffle for prizes. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage in Chanukah crafts.
Rabbi Mendy Deitsch, director of Chabad of the East Valley, said the crafts will allow children to create their own colorful menorahs.
“We have these small menorahs that are hollow. You fill it with different color sand. It’s a lot of fun,” Rabbi Deitsch said.
It’s the first time for the city of Tempe to collaborate in such a large-scale way with the Jewish community, Rabbi Deitsch said.
“The city is coming to understand and appreciate the diversity, the culture and celebrate that,” he added.
Earlier in the day, the community is invited to enjoy the Chanukah Wonderland, a free event that will be held at the Chabad Center at 875 N. McClintock in Chandler. It will be an opportunity for both children and adults to experience Chanukah through an intriguing hands-on olive press demonstration, a Chanukah donut bar, authentic Israeli cuisine and other activities. The day begins at 9:30 a.m. and runs through 1 p.m.
“In ancient times our ancestors rededicated the Temple in Jerusalem with the Menorah. Today, we rededicate ourselves to making this world a better and brighter place,” Rabbi Dietsch said.
In a world where violence and oppression is all too commonplace, Chanukah points the community to the message that ultimately good will prevail over evil.
As part of that effort to bring about good, those who attend the Chanukah Wonderland are asked to bring an unwrapped gift for the Chabad of the East Valley’s toy drive for children with special needs.
“We want to bring the community together and share our Jewish festival of Chanukah, expose people to it and promote a strong community,” Rabbi Deitsch said.
Information: 480-855-4333
