As the holiday season approaches, Chabad of Goodyear invites the community to celebrate Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, with a series of events that honor the traditions and significance of this Jewish holiday.

 Hanukkah, observed for eight days and nights, commemorates the miracle of the oil in the ancient Temple in Jerusalem. According to tradition, a small amount of oil, enough for just one day, burned for eight days, allowing the Jewish people to rededicate the Temple. To mark this miracle, Jewish families light a menorah, adding one candle each night until all eight are lit. 

This holiday, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a time for families to gather and share traditional foods like latkes, or potato pancakes, and sufganiyot, or jelly-filled doughnuts, play the dreidel game, and exchange gifts and gelt or chocolate coins.  This year Hanukkah will be celebrated beginning Wednesday, Dec. 25 at sunset and ending Thursday, Jan. 2 at nightfall.

Founded in 2010, Chabad of Goodyear provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of the Jewish community, regardless of background or level of observance. The center offers a range of spiritual, educational, and social activities, with no membership fees or charges for pastoral services. 

The Chabad of Goodyear aims to create a space where all Jewish individuals can connect with their heritage and community, whether they are new to Jewish practices or deeply involved in them. The center's goal is to make the Jewish experience meaningful and accessible for everyone who is interested.

 Chabad of Goodyear is hosting two community events to celebrate Hanukkah this year:

Chabad of Goodyear Menorah Lighting at the Town of Verrado

•  5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 26
•  On the Patio at the Center on Main, 4239 N. Village St., in Buckeye.
• This celebration will include latkes, donuts, gelt and music, providing a festive atmosphere for families and the community. 

Light Up Goodyear: A Giant Menorah Lighting Celebration

• 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 29
• In front of Osborne Jewelers, 15350 W. McDowell Road, in Goodyear.
• The event will feature the lighting of a giant menorah to mark the first night of Hanukkah, along with latkes, doughnuts and hot soup. Music and entertainment will be provided, including a performance by Magician Eric Giliam, and prizes for children in attendance. 

 These events offer an opportunity for the community to gather, celebrate the holiday, and enjoy festive food and activities. 

The Chabad of Goodyear offers a variety of programs for individuals and families throughout the year. These include weekly Torah study, the Jewish Women’s Circle, Hebrew School, Bar and Bat Mitzvah training, and more. The center also hosts holiday celebrations and social events, fostering community engagement with Jewish traditions.

 Visit jewishgoodyear.com for more information.