Hanukkah
The Festival of Lights
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the 2nd century, where according to legend Jews had risen up against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt.
Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days, in honor of the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days in the Holy Temple. Unlike some other Jewish holidays where work is forbidden, there are no restrictions on doing work during Hanukkah. Holiday traditions include: lighting the menorah (candelabra), playing the dreidel game (spinning top), eating gelt (chocolate “gold coins”), cooking and baking delicious food (especially frying in oil), and enjoying the fun of opening Hanukkah gifts.
Celebrating with the J
Light up the season with us! Join Pozez JCC and our community partners for three festive Hanukkah celebrations across Northern Virginia, with music, dancing, menorah lighting, and fun for the whole family.
A Hanukkah Party featuring Michael Winograd and The Honorable Mentshn
Saturday, December 5 | Doors 5:00 PM, Show 6:30 PM
The Barns at Wolf Trap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182
Celebrate the second night of Hanukkah with a family-friendly dance party! Klezmer clarinetist Michael Winograd and his band bring rousing Eastern European Jewish music, plus traditional Jewish dancing with instructor Judy Sweet and dreidel games for all ages. Come early for dinner and drinks at the Virginian Barn.
Tickets: $54.50 balcony, $32.75 general admission. Free parking.
Hanukkah at the J
Monday, December 7 | 5:30–7:30 PM
Pozez JCC, 8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax, VA 22031
Enjoy entertainment, a festive menorah lighting, and fresh donuts, and stop by the tables of our community partners to meet local organizations, congregations, and programs. Interested in Camp Achva this summer? Attendees get a special discount!
Everyone is welcome; registration is requested. Suggested donation of $24 per family.
Hanukkah at Mosaic: Glow and Dance Party!
Wednesday, December 9 | 5:30–6:30 PM
Mosaic District, Merrifield, VA 22031
Join us for a glowing Hanukkah celebration with music, singing, and lively entertainment, building up to a community menorah lighting at 6:00 PM. Bring your family and friends for an evening of warmth and connection for all ages.
Celebrating in Northern Virginia
Visit jlive for events around NoVA