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The annual menorah lighting in downtown Syracuse marks the beginning of Hanukkah today (December 25). The event will take place at 4:30 p.m. in Clinton Square, celebrating the first night of the eight-day Festival of Lights. This year, Hanukkah coincides with Christmas, a rare occurrence that last happened in 2005. The Chabad Lubavitch of Central New York has been organizing the public menorah lighting for 43 years.
Each night of Hanukkah, another candle is lit on the menorah, accompanied by special prayers. The lighting schedule remains consistent at 4:30 p.m., except for Friday at 3:45 p.m. and Saturday at 7 p.m. According to Syracuse.com, additional menorah lightings will occur at various locations, including Syracuse Hancock International Airport and the Fayetteville Fire Department.
Hanukkah commemorates the Maccabees' victory over Greek persecution over 2,000 years ago. The holiday celebrates the miracle of the menorah oil lasting eight days instead of one. WKTV reports that public celebrations are especially significant amid rising antisemitism, highlighting the importance of openly celebrating Jewish identity.