Columbia Unites to Celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah

News Summary

In Columbia, Maryland, the overlap of Christmas and Hanukkah this year brings a unique festive spirit as thousands gather for community celebrations. The Chabad Aleph House lights the largest menorah in the southeast, symbolizing the triumph of faith. Community members, supported by the Columbia Fire Department, participate in meaningful ceremonies that honor their traditions and promote religious freedom. Additionally, the Levine family dazzles visitors with Maryland’s largest Hanukkah display, coupled with local synagogues distributing festive Hanukkah boxes. This joyous occasion fosters unity and reflection among residents.

Columbia Celebrates Joyous Overlap of Christmas and Hanukkah with Community Events

This year, Columbia, Maryland, is buzzing with excitement as the festive season takes on a unique twist. Thousands of Jewish residents in the Midlands are gearing up to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah on December 25, a delightful coincidence that makes this year extra special. It marks the first time since 2005 that Hanukkah overlaps with Christmas, and the local community is embracing this joyous occasion with open arms.

Illuminating Traditions at Chabad Aleph House

As the sun sets on Christmas Day, jubilation fills the air at the Chabad Aleph House, where a giant menorah is lit in an inspiring ceremony. This menorah is the largest in the southeast region, and its lighting is a significant symbol for the Jewish community. It celebrates the triumph of the Maccabees over the Syrian Greek army, a historic event deeply cherished in Jewish tradition. Lighting the menorah not only commemorates a monumental victory but also represents the reclamation of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Hanukkah story is the miraculous way the menorah was lit with pure olive oil, which lasted for eight nights against all odds. This beautiful narrative is what brings families and neighbors together this year, encouraging them to reflect on the importance of faith and what it means to stand up for it.

A Community Celebration

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Columbia Fire Department lends a hand to ensure the evening goes off without a hitch. Local residents gather to participate in the lighting ceremony, creating a sense of unity and joy that fills the air. As Rabbi Epstein emphasizes, this holiday celebrates not just the miracle of the oil, but it stands tall as a representation of religious freedom. It’s a reminder of the importance of standing firm in one’s beliefs and traditions, inspiring everyone to embrace their faith.

River Hill Chanukah: A Dazzling Display

As if that weren’t enough to fill Columbia with festive cheer, the Levine family is wowing visitors with their extravagant River Hill Chanukah display. Considered the largest Hanukkah display in Maryland, it features thousands of twinkling lights and whimsical inflatables spread across two neighboring properties. This year’s display is open for viewing daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. through the New Year, offering everyone a chance to bask in the holiday spirit.

The Levine family kicked off their display back in 2014, inspired by a cherished gift from their grandmother—a large inflatable bear. Over the years, their display has grown into a beloved tradition, lighting up the community and attracting visitors far and wide. As part of their holiday giving, donations collected from visitors support a local synagogue and Chabad of Clarksville, ensuring that the spirit of giving accompanies their festive enjoyment.

Spreading Hanukkah Cheer

This year, alongside the dazzling lights and community events, the local synagogue is rolling out Hanukkah boxes filled with goodies for visitors. Each box includes a handy guide, a menorah, candles, and a dreidel, making it easy for families to join in on the traditions of this special holiday.

This delightful overlap of Christmas and Hanukkah in Columbia is a time of celebration, community, and reflection on shared values. With warm gatherings, illuminating ceremonies, and awe-inspiring displays, residents are coming together to create memories that will last well beyond this festive season.

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Additional Resources

• Patch: Largest Hanukkah Display in the State Found in Columbia
• WLTX: Hanukkah Celebrations in Columbia, SC
• Haaretz: Jewish Columbia Professor Resigns in Protest
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hanukkah
• WUSA9: Hanukkah Attraction in Columbia, Maryland
• Google Search: Hanukkah