Book Your Trip to One of the top US Hanukkah Celebration Destinations
If you’re planning to celebrate Hanukkah a little differently this year, you may want to look into heading out of town for the holiday. There are countless ways to commemorate the meaning of Hanukkah in your special way all over the country. Whether you’re craving a taste of the big city or some Southern charm, you’ll find plenty waiting for you at the top US Hanukkah celebration destinations. Before you book your bus ticket, keep these options in mind.
New York City
Just as New York City does _everything_ in spectacular fashion, it’s no slouch when it comes to celebrating Hanukkah, either. If you do nothing else, don’t miss the lighting of Brooklyn’s Largest Menorah, which stands about 32 feet high and is on display for every night of the holiday. Enjoy live music, gifts for the kids, and, of course, piping hot latkes to keep you toasty on freezing evenings. Also worth a visit: the Latke Festival at the Brooklyn Museum. It’s a lively charity event—you’ll not only have your fill of all the potato pancakes you can handle, but you’ll also do your part to support The Sylvia Center, a nonprofit that helps under-served communities explore healthy eating opportunities.
Of course, there are amazing Manhattan restaurants where you can enjoy all the traditional favorites, including latkes and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts). If you have a huge sweet tooth, make your way to Breads Bakery for their chocolate, vanilla, halva, and strawberry sufganiyot. Freds Downtown at Barneys New York is where to be if you need to get your latke fix—there are a variety of options available, plus vodka to wash it all down. And it wouldn’t be Hanukkah without a visit to the world-renowned and universally beloved Katz’s Delicatessen. Go once or go every night of the holiday for something new every time.
San Antonio, Texas
If you love San Antonio in the summertime, you’ll appreciate it in a different way during the cooler months. While it doesn’t exactly get cold in the beloved Texas city, there’s something decidedly different in the air during Hanukkah. Every year, the Chabad Center for Jewish Life & Learning hosts Chanukah on the River. This festive experience is a must if you love spending time by the River Walk. There’s an interactive cruise experience that also includes live music and prizes. A couple of hours later, enjoy the menorah lighting and meet with leaders within the local Jewish community.
Another annual event to keep in mind is the Chanukah Menorah lighting celebration, a partnership between Pearl and Young & Jewish San Antonio (YJSA). This completely free event is a wonderful opportunity to meet and mingle with locals as well as share in the beauty of the holiday with your family.
Los Angeles, California
Whether you’re traveling on your own or with the family, you’ll find hundreds of wonderful events throughout Los Angeles. Among the most noteworthy is Hanukkah Family Fun Day, hosted annually by the Shalom Institute in Malibu. Enjoy tons of fun outdoors, from farm activities to wall climbing. For a deeper appreciation of the holiday, visit Chabad of Greater Los Feliz. In addition to the daily menorah lighting, the facility hosts a buffet dinner complete with doughnuts and latkes. Kids can learn how to play dreidel and enjoy other family-oriented activities in the company of friendly locals.
If you’re planning to do some shopping while you’re in town, make your way to Two Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. The Chabad of Beverly Hills hosts its annual celebration on Via Rodeo, complete with live entertainment and delicious food. If you’re in Newport Beach, join the Chabad Center for Jewish Life for the Fashion Island Menorah Lighting. There will be face painting and other kids’ activities as well as food and, of course, doughnuts and dreidels.
Book Your Trip to One of the Top US Hanukkah Celebration Destinations
If you’re planning to make special memories this year, consider one of the top US Hanukkah celebration destinations for your next getaway. A big city doesn’t feel huge when you’re immersed in welcoming, family-friendly environments that offer wonderful activities for everyone in your group. Visit BusTickets.com to book your affordable vacation today.
References
https://www.chabadparkslope.com/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/2399584/jewish/Home.htm
https://www.latkefestival.com/
https://www.yjsa.org/young-jewish-san-antonio
https://www.chabadlosfeliz.org/
