On a night when ice covered the ground and frigid winds swept through Grand Army Plaza, over 600 hundred people bundled in coats and scarves still came out to celebrate New York’s largest Chanukah menorah lighting and celebration. Their presence was a powerful demonstration of Jewish pride and solidarity with the Jewish community in Sydney, Australia, which just endured a horrific antisemitic terrorist attack at their own menorah lighting.
Despite the freezing temperatures, the highly acclaimed Pumpidisa Band kept spirits high, with lively music that had attendees dancing and clapping along. Hot cocoa and sizzling latkes were distributed to warm the crowd, adding comfort and joy to the evening.
Rabbi Menashe Wolf, a native Australian and friend of Rabbi Eli Schlanger hy”d, who was murdered in Sydney, led heartfelt prayers for the victims. He urged the community to “rise up and shine brighter,” reminding everyone that Chanukah is about bringing light into the darkest of times.
The evening featured words of solidarity and encouragement from a range of civic leaders. Ilana Ybgi, representing the UJA Federation of New York, shared greetings and announced new funding to strengthen Jewish security in the city. New York Attorney General Letitia James joined the celebration, reaffirming her support for the Jewish community. She condemned antisemitic violence and declared: “We stand with the Jewish community now and forever.” Also present were Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse, who addressed the crowd and expressed their commitment to standing with the community during this difficult time.
From atop the boom lift, Rabbi Shimon Hecht, Director of Chabad of Park Slope and sponsor of the nightly menorah lightings, called upon everyone to increase in mitzvos. “The way we eliminate darkness is by increasing acts of light and goodness. Just as the small jug of oil in the Chanukah story illuminated the world, so too can our small deeds make a global difference.”
Honored with kindling the menorah and reciting the blessings was Michael Berkowitz, CEO of Norwegian Wool, joined by his wife and children. He beautifully recited the three blessings and lit the first candle of the giant menorah, remarking: “We light when it’s dark because that’s when we need light the most.” He thanked Chabad centers worldwide for providing light to Jewish communities, especially in times of need.
As the flames of the giant menorah flickered against the icy night sky, the crowd stood together in awe. The beautifully lit menorah was more than a festive centerpiece—it was a symbol of resilience, unity, and strength for the Jewish community. Local resident Gary Morgen summed it up best: “The warmth and love of the community made it feel balmy.”
The Largest Menorah is a project of Chabad of Park Slope, a division of the National Committee for the Furtherance of Jewish Education (NCFJE).
Remaining Menorah Lighting Schedule 2025 – 5786:
2nd Night of Chanukah, Monday, December 15 at 6:00 pm
3rd Night of Chanukah, Tuesday, December 16 at 6:00 pm
4th Night of Chanukah, Wednesday, December 17 at 6:00 pm
5th Night of Chanukah, Thursday, December 18 at 6:00 pm
6th Night of Chanukah, Friday, December 19 at 3:30 pm
7th Night of Chanukah, Saturday, December 20 at 7:15 pm
8th Night of Chanukah, Sunday, December 21 at 5:00 pm
Join us for a celebration filled with light, music, and community spirit
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