As Adam Sandler once sang, “Put on your yarmulke, it’s time for Hanukkah.”
At sunset on December 18, Hanukkah begins! This Jewish festival of lights is a minor holiday when it comes to religiosity, but it’s a major one when it comes to friends, family, and fun.
No matter how you spell it, Hanukkah is fast approaching, and some really great events are happening in Boston! If you’re looking to light up the night with your family, check out a few of these favorite Hanukkah events in Greater Boston this season!
Pre-Chanukah Family Fun Day
Sunday, December 11
Lynn
Join Chabad Lynn at this pre-Chanukah family fun day. Enjoy a klezmer concert featuring Ezekiel’s Wheels, a used book sale, a pop-up thrift shop, story time, and a craft fair. ($8 per child, $12 per adult, or $36 per family)
Hanukkah Through the Senses
Sunday, December 11
Watertown
This pay-what-you-can event in Watertown will have you learning about Hanukkah using all five senses. Listen to klezmer music, smell delicious treats fried in oil, see dancers, taste chocolate gelt, and enjoy a stage performance, story, and arts and crafts. This event will be enjoyed by people of all ages!
Chabad Natick’s Menorah Workshop
Sunday, December 11
Natick
Join Chabad Natick for a kids’ menorah workshop at Home Depot. This event is recommended for ages 3+, for any kids who enjoy crafts and creating. Your child will come home with a menorah — made by them! — and a belly full of refreshments. RSVPs are required, but this event is free (donations are appreciated).
Vilna Shul’s Community-Wide Hanukkah A Capella Concert
Sunday, December 11
Boston
Join the historic Vilna Shul for their 5th annual Hanukkah a capella concert hosting various a capella groups from all over Greater Boston, including Manginah and Honorable Menschen, in addition to a number of middle school and high school students groups. This program is suitable for kids and adults of all ages. ($10 per person, or $25 per family; parking is validated)
Jewish Arts Collaborative (JArts) Hanukkah Festival of Lights Program
Thursday, December 15
Boston
This is the Greater Boston Jewish community’s “Super Bowl” event! For the first time since COVID, be part of this live communal celebration at the Museum of Fine Arts (with discounted admission!). Look forward to the community candle lighting, featuring an eight-part painting by Joshua Meyer, and hear musical performances, create make-and-take art activities, and listen to Judaica Gallery spotlight talks by museum curators. And, while you’re at it, enjoy the MFA in its full splendor.
Hanukkah Kick Off Event at Solomon Schechter Day School
Saturday, December 17
Newton
Join the SSDS community for a “Glow Havdalah” event, followed by games and fun put on by Knucklebones Entertainment. See JArts’ Brighter Revealed public art experience — be sure to wear white or neon clothes that will “glow.” Bring your friends for food and fun. The event is free, but please register, and pre-order pizza for a cost or bring a nut-free dinner.
Chabad North Shore Run-a-Latke 5k
Sunday, December 18
Swampscott
Join Chabad North Shore for a 5K run (or walk) along Swampscott’s shore. Then, enjoy latkes and klezmer music and dancing afterward.
Sharon’s Chanukah Wonderland
Sunday, December 18
Sharon
Take your family to the Community Chanukah Carnival, put on by Young Israel of Sharon, Chabad Center of Sharon, and Congregation Menachem. This event will leave you spinning like a dreidl, as your kids take part in awesome booths, tie-dye projects, Chanukah theater, olive press demonstrations, and filling and decorating their own sufganiyot. ($5 per person, $20 per family)
Jewish Community Day School’s STEAM Chanukah Event
Sunday, December 18
Watertown
Join JCDS and Temple Emunah for Chanukah-themed STEAM activities. Learn about light, create holiday crafts, play some dreidel, and more. Stay for holiday songs, blessings, and a special treat at the end.
Menorah Lighting at Copley Square
Sunday, December 18
Boston
Join Chabad Boston at Copley Square in Boston to light the tallest menorah in New England. Enjoy live music, including a performance by the Berklee Music Ensemble, and watch out for the chocolate gelt drop, launched from the top of a firetruck’s ladder.
Menorah Lighting in Peabody
Sunday, December 18
Peabody
Chabad Peabody invites you for their menorah lighting. Stay for the gelt drop, latkes, sufganiyot, dreidels, and more.
Family Fun Chanukah Celebration
Sunday, December 18
Boston
Join the Boston Synagogue for their Family Fun Chanukah Celebration — fun for kids, parents, and grandparents! Participate in three activity stations, including Chanukah Jeopardy, a book reading, and, of course, refreshments!
Menorah at the Mall
Wednesday, December 21
Peabody
Chabad Peabody and North Shore JCC invite you to a special menorah lighting with the mayor of Peabody at the North Shore Mall. Your kids will love the special children’s Chanukah DJ show, plus games, crafts, and activities. Everyone will love the latkes and sufganiyot!
Temple Beth Shalom, Framingham (Adults Only Party)
Thursday, December 22
Framingham
Join the TBS community for a 21+ event, including a latke bar, Chanukah-themed cocktails, and pub trivia with prizes. ($10 online, $15 at the door; RSVP required)
Chabad Brookline — Chanukah Drum Circle
Sunday, December 25
Brookline
You could celebrate Jewish Christmas with Chinese food and a movie… or, you could go to Chabad Brookline’s Chanukah drum circle (or do it all?). Join for latkes, sufganiyot, and a menorah lighting. Then, join in the interactive drum circle. ($10 per person, $30 per family)
