Hanukkah, the eight-day festival echoing the universal theme of religious freedom, will be marked by many exciting activities and celebrations “designed to light up the communities in Monmouth County,”  announced Rabbi Laibel Schapiro, director of Chabad of the Shore.  

The holiday of Hanukkah is a festival of victory and celebration for all times, highlighted by the kindling of Menorahs each night of the holiday.  “It is a holiday replete with traditions, with displays of Jewish pride and unity,” added Rabbi Schapiro, “yet it also contains a universal message for people of all faiths – that, ultimately, good will triumph over evil, freedom over oppression and light over darkness.”

The following programs are sponsored by Chabad of the Shore and will take place over the eight day festival:

Hanukkah on Ice

At the Wall Sports Arena-1215 Wyckoff Road, Wall Township, on Saturday night December 8^th, starting at 6:30pm, the entire family can celebrate the beginning of the holiday with a skate to Hanukkah music and delicious hot pizza and donuts.

Hanukkah Family Concert

At the Wilson Auditorium on Sunday December 9^th, 10:30 am, the “What’s Up Band” will celebrate the holiday with an exciting, powerful and memorable Jewish Rock N’Roll experience for all ages.  They’ll be joined by the Chabad Hebrew School Chorus.

Menorah Lighting in Shrewsbury:

Community leaders and dignitaries will light a Menorah at the gazebo of Shrewsbury Borough Hall at 419 Sycamore Ave on Monday December 10, at 6:30pm.  It will also feature live family entertainment, donuts and dreidels.   

Hanukkah at the Boardwalk:

On Tuesday, December 11 at 6:00pm, Pier Village will host Hanukkah at the Boardwalk.  One of the largest menorahs in NJ will be lit from a fireman’s bucket by local politicians and community leaders.  Hot latkes (a traditional Hanukkah food) will keep participants warm and toasty.  

Menorah Lighting in Fair Haven

At Veteran’s Park on River Road, across from the Fair Haven Borough Hall, local dignitaries will light the holiday candles, and there will be donuts and dreidels for the whole family beginning at 6:30pm on Wednesday, December 12th.

 Hanukkah at Monmouth Mall: 

The most widely attended Hanukkah Celebration in Monmouth County will be held on Thursday, December 13 in the food court of Monmouth Mall.  At 5:30pm, children and the young at heart will get to make Hanukkah crafts.  The candle lighting ceremony will begin at 6pm, as local politicians, dignitaries and community leaders will climb up to the top of the grand Menorah to kindle the flames.  It will be followed by family entertainment.  A children’s choir will sing traditional Hanukkah songs.  The festivities will end with music, jelly donuts and lively dancing. 

For more information, please email chabadshore@gmail.com or visit us at our website, www.chabadshore.com