TAMPA, Fla. (December 8, 2020) — The 13th annual Chanukah Street Festival will take place December 13 at the Grove at Wesley Chapel and include a COVID-safe Menorah Lighting featuring one of the largest menorahs in Tampa Bay. The outdoor event was moved to the Grove to accommodate the large crowds with social distanced seating as well as a stay-in-your-car drive-in option.
“Even though this year is different we wanted to ensure the Chanukah Street Festival would be bigger and better than ever,” said Chanie Yarmush CO-Director of Chabad at Wiregrass “We knew that after the uncertainty and stress of the last few months we need an opportunity to come together publicly to celebrate Chanukah in a safe, unified, and memorable way.”
This year’s event will take place on Sunday, Dec 13th from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Grove in Wesley Chapel (near the theater). The celebration will include the lighting of a large 12’ Menorah in honor of Chanukah. Featured entertainment will include an incredible BMX bike stunt show, live klezmer music by the Fraylekh band, comedy, stilt walkers, raffles & more. Prepackaged holiday food will be distributed to enjoy. All are welcome and there is no charge to participate.
“I want my kids to grow up with pride in their Jewish heritage and a feeling of equality and self-confidence as Americans,” said Alicia Zicchino of Lutz who is looking forward to attending the public menorah lighting. “I wish they had this where I grew up.”
The menorah lighting is part of the worldwide Chanukah campaign, an initiative launched by the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, in 1973. The campaign highlights and encourages the central theme of the holiday — publicizing the story of the Chanukah miracle.
“The menorah serves as a symbol of dedication to preserve and encourage the right and liberty of all its citizens to worship G‑d freely, openly, and with pride. This is true especially in America, a nation that was founded upon and vigorously protects the right of every person to practice his or her religion free from restraint and persecution,” said Rabbi Mendy Yarmush.
Join Chabad at the Grove in a public display of unity at this exciting Menorah Lighting Ceremony. Bring the kids and make this your special Chanukah celebration.
Media notice: The event is open to reporters and photographers and coverage is welcome. Rabbi Mendy Yarmush will be available to answer questions. For further information contact Rabbi Mendy at 813 731-2977. Visit ChabadatWiregrass.com
ABOUT CHANUKAH:
Chanukah, a celebration for all time is highlighted by the kindling of the menorah each night of the holiday. It is a holiday that enriches our lives with the light of tradition. In ancient times our ancestors rededicated the Temple in Jerusalem with the Menorah. Today, we rededicate ourselves to making this world a better and brighter place. Chanukah also propagates the universal message that ultimately good will prevail over evil, freedom over oppression and light over darkness.
We celebrate our religious freedom we enjoy as Americans, and the freedom we so very much want for all people all around the world. Chanukah bears the messages of Freedom, opportunity and gratitude to the Almighty for his bountiful blessings.