Menorah Lights Amsterdam Square

Thursday afternoon in Amsterdam it was pouring rain with very strong winds.

Organizer of the annual Light up Amsterdam, Shliach Menachem Evers sent a letter to the Ohel, and a little before the event started the rain stopped and the winds calmed down.

It was a beautiful scene to see hundreds being able to show their Jewish pride, sing and dance together, and enjoy the warm Chanukah atmosphere in the heart of Amsterdam, on the world famous Dam Square in front of the Royal Palace.

Israeli ambassador Chaim Divon spoke very warmly and said that while there are many other events that evening, he chose to be at this lighting because this is the centre and heart of Amsterdam and of Holland and it’s very important and a big honor to celebrate it united together with hundreds of people. He was also given the honor of lighting the menorah. Later, he danced for a long time with the Shluchim, bochurim and the crowd.

Shliach Menachem Evers spoke about that although in the world, and particularly in Europe it’s sometimes hard to feel safe, we can learn from the Maccabis, who trusted in G-d and were able to overcome the strong enemy.

Many people said that the beautiful event was very special and emotional, for the fact that they can publicly be proud of being Jewish, which gives them courage and strength.

A group of bochurim came with a Mitzva tank from Brunoy Yeshiva, and added a lot to the joyous spirit of the evening.

Photos: Dirk Spits