Hanukkah is an eight-day winter “festival of lights,” traditionally celebrated by those who follow the Jewish faith. It begins on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev and follows the Hebrew calendar which is based on the lunar cycle meaning it can occur on different dates each year.
Check out these can't-miss Hanukkah celebrations in Columbus this season.
Menorah Lighting at Easton Town Center
December 30 | 6:00 pm
Attend this event by Easton and Chabad of Columbus to view the Menorah Lighting in Town Square. This family-friendly event will include raffle prizes, music, refreshments and more! Learn more about this event and other holiday happenings at Easton, here.
Menorah Lighting at Easton
Jewish Heritage Night with the Columbus Blue Jackets
December 31 | 8:00 pm
Cheer on the Columbus Blue Jackets as they take on the Carolina Hurricanes! In addition to watching the game, guests will participate in the lighting of the menorah and have the opportunity to take part in a postgame slapshot on the ice. Tickets include a CBJ scarf and Kosher food, get yours.
Pre-Hanukkah Celebration at Franklin Park Conservatory
December 17 | 5:00 pm
In partnership with the Jewish Community Center, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is hosting a Pre-Hanukkah Celebration as part of their holiday exhibition, Conservatory Aglow. Evening festivities include children's crafts, activities and entertainment along with a public lighting of the menorah at 7 pm. Get tickets.
Pajama Party and Cookie Decorating
December 25 | 6:30 pm
The kids will love attending this party in their PJs with Chanukah cookie decorating crafts. Don't miss this free event! RSVP here.
Maccabee Landing & Chanukah Candy Drop
December 26 | 2:30 pm
This free event features a Hanukkah Hero skydiving from a helicopter to light the first candle! Join in the fun at Bevelhymer Park Yellow Zone, 7950 Bevelhymer Road, Westerville, OH 40381. RSVP here.
Bexley Menorah Lighting
December 26 | 6:00 pm
Head to Drexel Circle for Donuts, dreidels, dancing and apple cider at the Bexley Menorah Lighting.
The Ohio State House Menorah Lighting
December 26 | 7:30 pm
Watch the Statehouse Menorah light up followed by a Chanukah Reception inside the Statehouse Museum Gallery.
Friday Night of Lights Shabbat Dinner
December 27 | 4:30 pm
Guests enjoy a grand Menorah lighting followed by a family-friendly, three-course meal at the Lori Schottenstein Chabad Center in New Albany. Register, here.
Ice Skating & Menorah Lighting at Chiller Easton
December 28 | 7:00 pm
Enjoy ice skating, Chanukah music, crafts, donuts and more at the Fire & Ice event. Get tickets.
Chanukah on Horseback
December 29 | 2:30 pm
Experience the World's first horseback riding Maccabbe performance. You won't want to miss the story of Chanukah come to life with the Maccabees on horseback as they reenact the Ancient Story of Chanukah. Purchase tickets.
Menorah Lighting at Polaris Fashion Place
January 1 | 5:00 pm
Head to Polaris Fashion Place on January 1 for an evening of dancing, treats and dreidels to celebrate another evening of Chanukah.
Menorah Lighting at Tuttle Mall
January 2 | 5:00 pm
Close out another fantastic Chanukah celebration with a menorah lighting at Tuttle Mall with games, doughnuts, cider and dancing.
Happy Hanukkah! Please share your memories with us on social using #yesColumbus.