SPOKANE, Wash. — Today is the first day of Hanukkah where locals who celebrate will light a menorah in their homes, have a blessing and eat popular Jewish foods like Latkes (fried potato pancakes) and fried donuts.
Most who celebrate put their menorahs in their window or a common area in their home.
If you are wanting to celebrate the first day of Hanukkah in a public setting, there is also a group celebration happening on Dec. 10. There will be a car menorah parade at 4:30 p.m. on the South Hill that will end at 5 p.m. at the rotary fountain at Riverfront Park.
At the end of the parade at Riverfront Park, they will light the Menorah before a concert and celebration at the Pavilion.
The concert will feature a country/classical singer performing Jewish classical songs. There will be a light dinner, arts and crafts for kids and a Hanukkah store.
But right now the world has been in crisis as innocent Jewish people have been kidnapped and murdered overseas. A local Rabbi says that this year’s Hanukkah celebration is extremely important.
Rabbi Hahn with Chabad of Spokane says that the Jewish community has been hit hard by the tragedy overseas and feel like it is them against the world.
“Hanukkah is essentially that message of few against many. A few people against a world that is hostile,” said Rabbi Hahn.
It is times like that that it’s crucial for Jewish people to come together. Hanukkah is a holiday about spreading positivity, sharing light, persevering through hard times and standing up for what is right.
He is inviting everyone in the community to attend their Hanukkah celebration and concert at Riverfront Park on Dec. 10. For more information about the event, go to the All Events website for the schedules and tickets!
