Community Corner

Hanukkah 2012 in Pine-Richland

Celebrate the Festival of Lights in Pine-Richland 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. 

For Pine-Richland residents, the closest synagogue is Temple Ohav Shalom at 8400 Thompson Run Road in Allison Park. Its Kabbalat Shabbat service is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 14, which is preceded by a temple-wide Hanukkah dinner at 6 p.m. Morning services are set for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15.

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A preschool Hanukkah dinner will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 12.

For a full schedule of temple services, click here.

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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.

TELL US: If you observe Hanukkah, what are your plans? Tell us in the comments and show us pictures and videos of your celebrations by clicking on "Upload photos and videos" above.

 

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