WILLIAMSBURG — Chabad Williamsburg announced it will light a public 10-foot menorah erected at Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square, followed by a community celebration on Sunday, Dec 14.
The event, free and open to the public, starts at 2 p.m. In addition to the public menorah lighting, it will feature entertainment for all ages, including Jewish country singer Troy Breslow as well as hot drinks and a selection of Hanukkah treats.
“This year, we are celebrating Hanukkah with even more joy,” said Rabbi Mendy Heber, director of Chabad Williamsburg. “As Colonial Williamsburg marks 250 years of American history, we are reminded how deeply the message of Hanukkah echoes the American journey. The Menorah and the story of Hanukkah represent gratitude to the Almighty for freedom of the human spirit, freedom from tyranny and oppression, and the enduring victory of good over evil. These are the same values that shaped America at its founding and continue to guide us today.”
According to Chabad Williamsburg, the public menorah is part of the worldwide Hanukkah campaign established in 1973 by the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, to build awareness and promote observance of Hanukkah. The campaign includes facilitating public menorah lightings, distributing tin menorahs for personal use, hosting Hanukkah car-menorah parades and other Hanukkah activities for kids, families and individuals of all ages, it said.
This year’s Hanukkah celebrations carry added significance as America approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, Chabad Williamsburg said.
“The Rebbe taught that the Menorah is a universal symbol of liberty, and holds an important place in American life,” added Rabbi Mendy Heber. “The celebration of Hanukkah underscores the G-d endowed liberty that is at the heart of what America represents.”
For more information visit ChabadWilliamsburg.org
