Description: The lighting of one of the world's largest Menorahs marks the Festival of Chanukah eight-day Jewish holiday. Following the ceremony, complimentary donuts and latkes will be served.
The mid-winter Jewish holiday of Chanukah (also spelled Chanukkah, Hanukkah and Hanukka) is a celebration of the ancient victory of the Maccabees over the occupation of Jerusalem by Syrian-Greeks and their king Antiochus IV.
Upon regaining the right to worship freely, the Jewish victors rededicated their Holy Temple and lit the menorah with pure oil found in the Temple. Although there was only enough oil for one day, it miraculously continued to burn for eight days, until they were able to prepare more oil.
Today, families celebrate the ancient victory, freedom and the miracle of the pure oil during the eight-day Chanukah holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights. Each day, the menorah candles are lit, beginning with one on the first day, then two on the second day until the eighth day when all eight candles are lit.
Details:
- Date: December 17, 2006
- Location: The Ellipse (at the NW end, near Constitution Avenue)
- Hours: 4 p.m.
- Admission: Free - Advance Tickets Required
- For More Information Contact: 202-332-5600
