Excitement Builds for Fourth Annual Chanukah Celebration in Beaufort

Excitement Builds for Chanukah Celebration in Beaufort!

Beaufort is gearing up for a heartwarming celebration as the fourth annual Public Menorah Lighting takes place at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park this upcoming December. Organized by Chabad Greater Hilton Head, this festive event is set for 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 26, marking the second night of the eight-day Festival of Lights—Hanukkah. Families and friends from all walks of life are invited to partake in the joyous occasion, where a spectacular 9-foot menorah will be lit, spreading warmth and light throughout the community.

A Festive Atmosphere Awaits!

The lighting ceremony promises to be filled with joy and cheer! Attendees can expect Grand Menorah Lighting music, delicious latkes, and sweet donuts to savor during this special evening. As if that weren’t enough, complimentary Chanukah menorahs and candles will be given away to participants, allowing families to create their own dazzling displays at home. “Everyone is especially excited about Chanukah this year,” said Rabbi Mendel, the Rabbi of Chabad Greater Hilton Head, radiating enthusiasm.

The Heart of the Celebration

With the current tensions in the world, Rabbi Mendel highlighted the real essence of Hanukkah stating, “Our defense is not guns and bombs … it’s something much more powerful: our strength as a people. Standing together. Supporting one another. Celebrating, connecting, as we have done through the centuries … Just like the Maccabees of old.” Indeed, the Menorah will not just light up the park; it symbolizes unity, pride, and courage within the community.

A Celebration with a Purpose

Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, starts on the evening of Wednesday, December 25, and concludes on the evening of January 2. This cherished holiday commemorates the remarkable victory of a small group of Jewish people over the powerful Syrian-Greeks, who had taken control of ancient Israel and tried to suppress Jewish religious practices. Miraculously, after reclaiming the desecrated Temple, a single jar of oil was discovered, enough to keep the menorah alight for just one day, but it lasted a full eight days!

Over the years, Chanukah has become a beacon of hope and a vivid reminder of the battle for religious freedom, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. Rabbi Mendel expressed the communal significance of this celebration, saying, “People are preparing to celebrate with family and friends, to fill their homes with the light of Chanukah, and there’s palpable joy.”

Join the Celebration!

Members of all faiths are encouraged to join this vibrant occasion as the public Hanukkah celebration aims to share the light and joy with the broader community. The menorah will face the street, making sure that passers-by can feel the warmth and brilliance it brings, reminding everyone of the message of freedom that President Menachem M. Schneerson aimed to convey back in 1973.

More Chanukah Fun Throughout South Carolina

Chabad Greater Hilton Head is excited to announce that multiple Chanukah events will take place throughout South Carolina, including in Bluffton and Hilton Head. If you’re interested in knowing more about local ceremonies and festivities, check out the information available at jewishhiltonhead.org/beaufort and jewishhiltonhead.org/chanukah.

Don’t Miss Out!

So, mark your calendars and get ready for a night full of light, joy, and community spirit. It’s a great opportunity to come together, have fun, and celebrate the true meaning of Chanukah!

What: Public Menorah Lighting

When: 5 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 26

Where: Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort

Cost: Free and open to the Public