Editor's Note: Thefollowing was submitted by the Chabad of Buckeye.
Chanukah is just a few days away and Buckeye is seeing a surge in public displays of the holiday and Jewish identity, with many more families and individuals planning to light their menorahs in visible places, such as their doors or windows.
The Jewish community will light a 9-foot menorah erected at the Center on Main in Verrado followed by a community celebration on Sunday, the first night of Chanukkah. Families in Buckeye are invited to join the Chanukah Celebration.
The festive gathering will feature a Grand Menorah Lighting, delicious latkes and donuts, a balloon artist, and engaging crafts for children. One of the most anticipated highlights for all will be the Chocolate Gelt Drop.
The mayor of Buckeye is expected to join the celebration, participate in lighting the Menorah and share a few words with the local Jewish community.
Organizers said additional activities include “Guess the Dreidel” and more family fun. "The event is open to the entire community, and everyone is warmly encouraged to attend and share in the celebration."
“Chanukah is a holiday about bringing light, joy, and togetherness,” Rabbi Mendy Goldstein said. “This celebration is an opportunity for the whole community to experience that spirit.”
EVENT RECAP
- What: Chanukah Celebration & Grand Menorah Lighting
- Where: The Center on Main, Verrado
- When: Sunday, December 14, 2025 at 5:00 PM
- Cost: Free with RSVP at JewishBuckeye.com/Chanukah2025
ABOUT CHANUKAH
Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, begins this year on Sunday evening and concludes on Dec. 22.
The holiday recalls the victory of the Jewish people over the Syrian-Greek Empire more than 2,000 years ago, after the Greeks sought to restrict Jewish practice and suppress religious freedom.
Upon reclaiming the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, the Maccabees found only a single jar of undefiled oil — enough to burn for one day — yet it miraculously lasted for eight. To commemorate this, Jews around the world light the Menorah for eight nights, celebrating the triumph of light over darkness and spirit over oppression.
Find more about Chanukah here.
ABOUT CHABAD OF BUCKEYE
Chabad of Buckeye provides Jewish education, community programs, holiday events, and social services for individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds throughout Buckeye and its neighboring areas.
For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Goldstein, Chabad of Buckeye at 858.208.6613 or [email protected] or visit jewishbuckeye.com.
