Chanukah Light Shines in Rostov

Jewish residents of Rostov joined together this year in celebrating Chanukah in a great public display of Jewish pride.

On Tuesday, 1200 people filled the Gorky Theatre (Rostov’s largest theatre) for a festive Chanukah concert, featuring Jewish music and dance. The concert was led by two Rostov born Jewish musicians who have since emigrated to Israel and Germany, and who returned to Rostov especially to participate in this event.

At the entrance to the theatre students of the Or Avner Jewish Day School as well as members of our youth club invited guests to light the Menorah, guiding them with the proper blessings.

Prior to the event, everyone was invited to enjoy freshly made donuts and drinks. There were booths where people could purchase Jewish books, a Jewish calendar, as well as view various exhibitions and pictures from the past year. There was a table displaying menorahs made by students of the Jewish day school.

At the beginning of the concert Rabbi Chaim Danzinger spoke about the importance of Chanukah and inspired participants with a story. “43 years ago, not far from here, lived a Jewish grandmother,” he said. “When Chanukah came, she decided that despite the risks involved, she would light a menorah and continue her family tradition. She lit her menorah hidden in a room with no windows, just so she could continue the traditions of Chanukah. Thank G-d we no longer have to hide, we are proud to light a menorah, and gather with friends and family to celebrate this wonderful holiday,” said Danzinger.

The concert featured the Rostov Jazz band, who performed Jewish songs for the very first time. Students from the local Jewish day school performed dances to the crowds delight to the joyous tunes of Avraham Fried’s music.

On Sunday, a Chanukah on Ice event was held for the very first time in an indoor rink in Revolution Park. Helping organize the event was the Jewish youth club and the event was intended for students and young adults. The menorah was lit, and Jewish music played throughout the evening. There was a performance by a professional figure skater, as well as many contests and fun games and refreshments.

On the 5th night of Chanukah, car menorahs which were ordered from the US finally arrived, and students arranged a parade throughout town with menorahs affixed to their cars.

On Motzei Shabbos one more student Chanukah party will be hosted by Rabbi Chaim and Kaila Danzinger, wrapping up this year’s Chanukah programs.

Hundreds of menorahs were distributed throughout Chanukah.

Other Chanukah programs included a Russia-wide Chanukah lighting contest launched with expensive prizes from Apple. The contest was organized by Rabbi Mendy Wilansky from Moscow, with a promo video produced by Chabad of Rostov.