Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Chabad of Pelham.

On Wednesday, Dec 5, join Chabad of Pelham for “Chanukah on Fifth’, a mega celebration featuring a 6ft. tall lego menorah which we’ll build together on the night! There will be crafts and activities for the kids, delicious chanukah foods (doughnuts, latkes, hot drinks!) as well as live musical entertainment. The event is free and open to the community, and will take place from 5:00-6:30pm at The Daronco Town House. The event is being sponsored by Maurice Owen-Michaane (a Pelham Resident & Parent) and his Real Estate Firm, Capital Realty NY, as well as Manor Market.

A highlight at this year’s festival will be a Fire Truck Chanukah Drop where our local Village of Pelham fire department will rain down foil-wrapped chocolate and chanukah items from their truck! “This activity will bring the ancient custom of giving children ‘chanukah gelt’ on Chanukah to a whole new level,” Mrs Chaya Groner said. “The custom of giving a coin to children on the holiday was designed to give kids positive reinforcement for exemplary behavior, particularly as a reward for diligence in their studies and acts of charity.”

In addition to the grand community celebration Chabad Pelham invites families to a free menorah making workshop at The Home Depot where each child will get to build their own menorah under the guidance of skilled instructors. Refreshments will be served and all children will receive a free workers apron. Join us at The New Rochelle Home Depot, 55 Weyman Ave., Sunday, Dec. 2. There will be two shifts; at 11.30am 1.00pm. RSVP required.

This year Chanukah begins in the evening of Sunday, December 2 and ends on Monday evening, December 10. It commemorates the miraculous victory in Ancient Israel where a small band of faithful Jews defeated the Greek army—the most powerful military at the time—which sought to impose Helenic culture on the Jews. It also commemorates the rededication of the Temple and the miraculous burning of the menorah for 8 days long.

“The menorah candelabra has now become a ubiquitous symbol of light—of the triumph of light over darkness, and freedom over oppression. We look forward to celebrating in a unique, family-fun way with the first giant lego menorah in Pelham.” Rabbi Levi Groner, the director of Chabad of Pelham said.

Chanukah is traditionally celebrated by lighting the menorah each evening for 8 days, eating fried holiday foods and giving children chanukah gelt.

For more information and to RSVP to one of the events go to www.chabadpelham.com/chanukah or call (914) 295-2699.

Chabad Pelham is always looking to share the holiday spirit with others. We’ll be visiting Senior Centers around Southern Westchester over the festival. If you would like to join us, please contact us to learn about volunteering opportunities.