Media Release
This Hanukkah, South Pasadena is seeing a surge in public celebrations and holiday displays, with families and individuals planning to light menorahs in visible places, such as their doors or windows. Chabad Jewish Center of South Pasadena will light the public menorah erected at Station Square Park, followed by a community celebration on December 18, the fifth night of Hanukkah. Free and open to the public, the event will feature a menorah lighting and entertainment for all ages, including a magic show, Hanukkah crafts, and a selection of festive holiday treats.
“This year, we are celebrating Hanukkah with even more joy,” said Dovid Harlig, director of Chabad of South Pasadena. “The Menorah and Hanukkah represent gratitude to the Almighty for freedom of the human spirit, freedom from tyranny and oppression, and the victory of good over evil.”
A Global Hanukkah Campaign
South Pasadena’s public menorah is part of the worldwide Hanukkah campaign established in 1973 by the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, 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 offering activities for kids, families, and individuals of all ages.
Hanukkah displays have become a staple of Jewish cultural and American public life, shaping how the festival is celebrated across the country.
Chabad-Lubavitch’s annual Hanukkah campaign has distributed millions of personal menorahs worldwide and erected thousands of public menorahs to share its universal message of light over darkness. This year’s campaign is expected to be one of unprecedented light and joy, reaching millions in more than 100 countries.
More than 15,000 large public menorahs will be displayed globally this year, including at notable sites such as the White House, the Eiffel Tower, the St. Louis Arch, and the Great Wall of China.
Festive Music Crafts Activities and Delicious Holiday Treats
The Menorah: A Symbol of Liberty
This year’s Hanukkah celebrations carry added significance as America approaches its 250th anniversary since founding.
“The Rebbe taught that the Menorah is a universal symbol of liberty and holds an important place in American life,” added Rabbi Harlig. “The celebration of Hanukkah underscores the G-d-endowed liberty that is at the heart of what America represents.”
EVENT DETAILS:
-
What: Chanukah Festival
-
Where: Farmers Market, Station Square Park, Downtown South Pasadena
-
When: December 18th, 4:00 – 5:00
-
Cost: Free Admission
