A public menorah lighting event is scheduled in Cedar Rapids on December 30

Cedar Rapids, Iowa – A public menorah lighting event will take place in Cedar Rapids, organized by Chabad N.E. Iowa.

On December 30, the sixth evening of Chanukah, a 10-foot menorah will be illuminated at 6 p.m. in front of Siegel’s Jewelry, located at 3525 1st Avenue SE.

The event promises an exciting lineup featuring music, dancing Rabbis, traditional Hanukkah delicacies, and a striking inflatable Dreidel measuring five feet tall and four feet wide.

“During this challenging period for the Jewish community, marked by conflict in Israel and a significant increase in antisemitism faced by American Jews, we are committed to celebrating Hanukkah this year with joy and a strong sense of Jewish pride,” Rabbi Schimmel stated. “The Menorah and Hanukkah symbolize the liberation of the human spirit, the triumph over tyranny and oppression, and the conquest of good over evil.”

The menorah in Cedar Rapids stands out among over 15,000 large public menorahs globally.

Rabbi Schimmel stated, “Observing Hanukkah serves as a powerful beacon of light, embodying Jewish pride and assurance for American Jews as they confront darkness and antisemitism.”

“The observance of Hanukkah highlights the divine freedom that lies at the core of America’s values.”

Hanukkah starts on December 25 and wraps up on January 2, 2025.