Community Corner

Hanukkah 2012 in Cleveland Heights

Celebrate the Festival of Lights in Cleveland Heights with fun events and delicious recipes.

This year, Hanukkah begins on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 8, and ends a week later on Sunday, Dec. 16.

According to Chabad.org, Hanukkah starts on the Hebrew calendar date of 25 Kislev and lasts for eight days. For those of us who aren't attuned to the Jewish calendar, that translates to sundown on Saturday, Dec. 8. 

You can attend Chabad of Cleveland's free Latkes & Lights celebration Monday, Dec. 10 at ETON Chagrin Boulevard.

Find out what's happening in Cleveland Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the story of the Maccabean Revolt against Syrian rulers in present day Israel 2,300 years ago. The Maccabees wanted to rededicate Jerusalem's main temple but had only enough oil to kindle the Eternal Light for one day. The oil lasted for eight days, according to the story, and the holiday of Hanukkah was born.

Today, Jews generally celebrate by gathering together with family, lighting one candle on the menorah each of the eight nights, playing dreidel and eating special holiday foods such as potato latkes and babka.

Find out what's happening in Cleveland Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

TELL US: If you observe Hanukkah, what are your plans?


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