The celebration (held annually on the first Sunday of Chanukah,) will mark the first night of the Chanukah festival. A super-sized Ice sculptured Menorah will be lit as part of the free event, hosted by Chabad of Greater Hartford, 4:00pm on Sunday, December 10th in the Town Hall parking lot. There will be a focus on the theme of spreading light and goodness, including an ART contest for children.
“Chanukah is a holiday of light and freedom, where few overcame the many, and light triumphed over darkness,” said Rabbi Shaya Gopin, of Chabad. “Reminding us that even when confronted with much darkness, a tiny light, an act of goodness and kindness, can dispel much darkness. Especially at a time when expressions of hate intimidate some, we need to strengthen our Jewish pride.” He emphasizes that this event is free of charge and open to all.
“Everyone regardless of religious affiliation can draw inspiration from Chanukah” said David Waren, President of the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford. “It's message that a little bit of light - of goodness, kindness, righteousness - dispels much darkness resonates deeply today. The Jewish Federation is proud to join with Chabad and all of our neighbors, to help bring even more light, more goodness, to our wonderful community.”
Public menorahs lightings seem particularly relevant at a time when 39 percent of American Jews say they have changed their behavior due to anti-Semitism, according to a study by the American Jewish Committee.
Children are encouraged to participate in "BE THE LIGHT" Art Contest, to create their artistic rendition on the theme: "A little bit of light can dispel a lot of darkness - I can be the light by spreading goodness!”
The objective is to encourage children to think how they can make a difference in their environment and see themselves as ambassadors of light and goodness!
The art could be a painting, drawing, photograph, sculpture or cartoon, art of any form. First place winner will also grace the cover of West Hartford Magazine and be featured on we-ha.com, in addition to other prizes!
The winning artwork will be announced on stage at the Fire and Ice Celebration on LaSalle Road in West Hartford Center on Sunday night, December 10th.
In addition, there will be a “Light Up Wall” where participants will fill out a “Flame” with a good deed they can add and put an actual (LED) light on the wall.
The West Hartford Police Department is working closely with organizers to ensure the safety of all celebrants. There will be strong security throughout the area with officers in uniform and in plain clothes, as well as surveillance from multiple places.
The free event is open to people of all backgrounds.
To register go to: https://www.jewishfarmingtonvalley.com/coming-soon-01
EVENT DETAILS:
What: Chanukah Fire on Ice – OPEN TO ALL
Where: Town Hall parking lot, 50 South Main St., West Hartford, CT
When: Sunday, December 10, 2023 – 4:00pm