No matter how you spell it, Hanukkah is fast approaching, and some really great events are happening in Boston! As Adam Sandler once sang, “Put on your yarmulke, it’s time for Hanukkah.”
At sunset on December 7, 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.
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!
First Friday Hanukkah
Friday, December 1
Newton
All are invited to join Temple Emmanuel as they get ready for Hanukkah and enjoy latkes and sufganiyot at oneg.
Vilna Shul’s Community-Wide Hanukkah A Capella Concert
Sunday, December 3
Boston
This year, Vilna Shul is bringing five college a cappella groups from universities across the city to their stage. Performers from Boston University, Berklee College of Music, Brandeis University, Harvard College, and Simmons College will share their talents, along with guest performances by local middle school students! ($10 per person, or $25 per family; parking is validated).
2nd Annual Camberville Chanukah Craft Fair
Sunday, December 3
Somerville
Stop by Temple B’nai Brith to meet local artists, find gifts for friends and family, and enjoy a bake sale, raffle, and Chanukah craft!
Worcester Art Museum Hanukkah Around the World Celebration
Sunday, December 3
Worcester
Join WAM for a day-long Hanukkah celebration for all ages! Enjoy music, live cooking demonstrations (and tastings), story times with PJ Library, art activities, LEGO art activities, dreidel games, a puppet show, food, shopping, and presentations on the history and traditions of this Jewish holiday.
We Rock Chanukah with PJ Library
Sunday, December 3
Wellesley
In anticipation of Chanukah, let your children shine brightly as they experience the holiday through specially designed sensory play equipment at We Rock the Spectrum Gym, an inclusive indoor playground for all kids. Leave your worries behind and let your children spread their light and joy as they zip, slide, jump, and climb through Chanukah themed activities, holiday crafts, and snack.
PJ Library Chanukah Musical Lantern Walk
Sunday, December 3
Somerville
Welcome the warm glow of Chanukah as you light up the night with lanterns, songs, and a community service project.
Festival of Lights Glow in the Dark Dance Party
Sunday, December 3
Marblehead
Join the North Shore JCC for a glow in the dark dance party, Hanukkah activities, pizza, and delicious Hanukkah treats! This event is best for families with children ages 8 and under.
Hanukkah: The Festival of Lights
Thursday, December 7
Boston
The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston celebrates Hanukkah in this unforgettable evening of musical performances, spotlight talks with museum curators, arts and crafts activities, loads of giveaways, delightful treats, and engaging art experiences for the whole family. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the museum during this exclusive after-hours access.
Menorah Lighting in Everett
Thursday, December 7
Everett
The City of Everett is pleased to collaborate with Rabbi Sruli Baron of the Tobin Bridge Chabad to enjoy a festive community-wide celebration. After lighting the menorah, attendees are welcome to enjoy music, latkes, doughnuts, dreidels, chocolate gelt, and more.
Menorah Lighting at Hancock-Adams Common
Thursday, December 7
Quincy
Light the first candle on the menorah as the City of Quincy observes the beginning of Chanukah!
Hanukkats by Talking Hands Theatre
December 9, 10, 16, 17
Brookline
Join Ziva the cat as she goes back to the time of the first Hanukkah to recover the missing letters on her dreidel! You’ll meet Judah Meowcabee, Oliver the olive oil maker, and a cast of other wonderful cat characters who help Ziva solve the mysterious connection between the dreidel letters, the Hanukkah story, and the way the game of dreidel is played. Audience members will have a chance to get up and dance, sing, and act out parts of the story in this musical, interactive journey through time.
Hanukkah Celebration for Families with Young Children
Sunday, December 10
Boston
Enjoy the festival of lights with musician and song leader extraordinaire Evan Haller of Music at the Blissful! Celebrate the Sunday of Hanukkah on Beacon Hill at the Vilna Shul with an upbeat sing-along that will get everyone dancing to the beat and craft stations to add to your at-home holiday art collection! Older siblings and grandparents are encouraged to attend. Brunch will be served!
Seaport Menorah Lighting
Sunday, December 10
Boston
Join Chabad of Downtown Boston at One Seaport from 6-7:30 p.m. as they light up a nine-foot-tall menorah as part of the city’s annual menorah lightings.
Hanukkah Festival Winter Market
Sunday, December 10
Newton
Celebrate Hanukkah, the festival of lights, and feel the warm glow of the holiday with JCC Greater Boston and PJ Library at the Leventhal-Sidman JCC! There’s something for the whole family, from an interactive live music show with Josh & The Jamtones to supporting local artisan businesses, plus festive games from Knucklebones, crafts, STEM projects, and a community candle lighting. Enjoy some special Chanukah treats, hot chocolate, and more!
Hanukkah Party for Families with Young Children
Sunday, December 10
Boston
The Village, FJECC preschool and Religious School are having a family Hanukkah party at Temple Israel in Boston! This event will feature local performer Vanessa Trien and Friends, and there will be games, crafts, doughnuts, latkes, a dreidel hunt, chocolate gelt, and more!
Teen Hanukkah Celebration
Monday, December 11
Boston
All teens are welcome to Temple Israel for a night of friends, food, fun, and Hanukkah celebration!
Concord Community Hanukkah Celebration
Wednesday, December 13
Concord
Kerem Shalom and the town of Concord invite the entire community to celebrate Hanukkah at Ride Out Park! Join Rabbi Darby, Rosalie, and Dani for a menorah lighting and blessings, music, craft goody bags, and latkes from Debra’s Natural Gourmet.
We hope you and your family have a happy, happy Boston Hanukkah and enjoy those eight crazy nights!
