The World’s Largest Menorah–a New York City icon and one of the world’s premier menorahs–is being lit every night of Chanukah at the corner of 5th Ave and 59th St. across from the Plaza Hotel in New York City.
This year’s celebrations mark 50 years since the world’s first public menorah which was lit at the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia in 1974. The public menorah was lit after the Rebbe launched the worldwide Chanukah campaign in 1973 to build awareness and promote observance of Chanukah.
The world’s largest menorah is 36 feet high and was certified by the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest. The menorah was designed by Israeli artist Yaacov Agam and inspired by a hand drawing by the Rambam of the original menorah in the Beis Hamikdash of Jerusalem.
This year’s menorah lighting is dedicated to the memory of Rabbi Shmuel Butman, who passed away in August of 2024. The director of the Lubavitch Youth Organization who oversaw the lighting of the World’s Largest Menorah since its inception, Rabbi Butman is remembered for his booming voice announcing dignitaries and leading the crowd in joyful singing from atop the cherry-picker during these ceremonies.
His sons, Rabbi Velvel Butman and Rabbi Yossi Butman have taken on the role of continuing the tradition and organizing the nightly events that feature a public menorah-lighting ceremony, live music, spirited Chassidic dancing and treats.
Over the years, the World’s Largest Menorah was lit by New York City Mayors Ed Koch, David Dinkins, Rudolph Giuliani, Michael Bloomberg, Bill de Blasio, and Eric Adams; Governors Mario Cuomo, George Pataki, David Paterson and Kathy Hochul; U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and many other dignitaries.
It is seen by New Yorkers, tourists and millions around the world, through live broadcasts and international press coverage. Over 1,000 people attended the lighting on the first night of Chanukah this past Wednesday.
NIGHTLY SCHEDULE
Lighting of the World’s Largest Menorah
Fifth Avenue and 59th Street at Central Park
Wed., Dec. 25 at 5:30 p.m.
Thu., Dec. 26 at 5:30 p.m.
Fri., Dec. 27 at 3:45 p.m.
Sat., Dec. 28 at 8:30 p.m.
Sun., Dec. 29 at 5:30 p.m.
Mon., Dec. 30 at 5:30 p.m.
Tue., Dec. 31 at 5:30 p.m.
Wed., Jan. 1 at 5:30 p.m.
We miss tremendously Rabbi Butman who lightened the World largest menorah for years. He is praying for all of us on high and asking for the imminent arrival of MOSHIAH. We will be all reunited very soon with our Holy Rebbe and all עם ישראל.
The sons of Rabbi Butman will continue the holy work of their very dear father.
G-D bless today and always.