Despite the cold temperature, Queens, NY recently witnessed the dazzling spectacle of the annual “Light Up the Night” Chanukah celebration; a unifying event that brought together diverse communities for the fifth consecutive year.
Spearheaded by the Shluchim for the Bukharian community in Fresh Meadows and Jamaica Estates, Rabbi Shmuel and Shevy Kogan, and in partnership with Ganeinu Academy, Chabad Ohr Avner, Young Israel of Jamaica Estates, QJCC, Bukharian Jewish Community Center of Jamaica Estates, House of Torah, Young Israel of Holliswood, Bukharian Jewish Community Center of Queens, Young Israel of Hillcrest and Bukharian Chai Center, this celebration has evolved into a cherished tradition extending beyond local boundaries to encompass the entire borough of Queens.
This year’s festivities drew an impressive turnout, with almost 4,000 people eagerly participating in the joyous occasion. International singing sensation Gad Elbaz headlined the event, electrifying the crowd with a performance that resonated with excitement and fervor. The lighting of the menorah, a symbolic and central moment, was carried out by Rabbi Kogan. Children contributed to the ceremony by reciting the 12 Psukim.
The crowd was silent as Miri Ben Ami, one of the mothers of a hostage currently held in Gaza, addressed the crowd. Everyone joined in Tehillim, praying for a safe return of her son Yosef Chain Ohana, together with every one of the hostages.
“When you lit the Menorah, the pride that I felt, it was overwhelming,” said Harold Moscowitz. “Thank you for giving me one of the most memorable nights of my life” was Neriya Davydov’s reaction.
The event introduced new elements this year, such as a professional fireworks show that captivated and delighted the crowd. Major prizes, including a coveted PS5, were generously given away, and an interactive Kahoot game with all participants competing against each other engaged the entire audience, adding an extra layer of excitement to the celebration.
Despite the challenges posed by those attempting to disrupt the event, the collaborative efforts of the New York City Mayor’s Office, the NYPD, Shmira and the NYC Park Police ensured a secure and incident-free gathering. The substantial security measures provided a sense of safety, allowing attendees to focus on the festivities and come together as a community. The focus was on Jewish Unity and Jewish Pride; on how darkness is disppelled by adding light. The crowd went wild as they sang Am Yisrael Chai!
In response to potential disruptions, the community displayed resilience and unity, doubling the number of participants compared to the previous year. The organizing committee, led by Ariel Shimunov, Jacob Herschkowitz, Simcha Sommers, Avrohom Asher Kogan, Avrohom Yagudayev and Rabbi Shmuel Kogan, played a crucial role in fortifying the event against external disruptions and ensuring its continued success.
Special Thanks to the NYC Mayor’s Office, the NYPD, Chief Phil Sparacio and the entire NYC Parks Department, Shmira, Council Members Linda Lee and Jim Gennaro and all the individuals who helped sponsor this event.
As the “Light Up the Night” Chanukah celebration becomes a fixture in Queens, it not only serves as a beacon of Jewish pride but also exemplifies the strength of community bonds and the ability to overcome challenges, ensuring a bright and festive tradition for years to come.
