Hanukkah is almost here, and anticipation for the holiday is growing throughout the Garden State. To help kick off this eight-day festival of lights, the City of Trenton invites you and your family to be a part of the Capital City’s annual Hanukkah Celebration.

On Friday, December 27th, you are invited to the Capital City for Trenton’s official Hanukkah Celebration and candle-lighting ceremony. The festivities will be held at 4:30pm on the steps of Trenton City Hall, located at 319 E State St, Trenton, NJ 08608. An inspiring evening of lights and love, this yearly tradition has become a major highlight of Trenton’s holiday calendar. Following the evening’s ceremony, on each night of Hanukkah, City Hall will keep lighting the candles, serving as a beacon of the season for anyone who happens to pass by its steps.

Hanukkah, an eight-day festival of lights, commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. After the Maccabees defeated their oppressors, they needed enough oil to burn a menorah continuously. Miraculously, the oil lasted eight days, allowing them to find a new supply. Each night of Hanukkah, a special candleholder with nine branches is lit, symbolizing the miracle. This holiday is a heartening reminder of perseverance and hope, something which members of all faith backgrounds can appreciate and enjoy. If you would like to learn more about the rich history, traditions, and celebrations surrounding Hanukkah, you can read more here: Hanukkah 101.

The City of Trenton, through its Department of Recreation, Natural Resources, and Culture, organizes a number of beloved celebrations throughout the holiday season. From Hanukkah festivities to the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, Trenton residents have the opportunity to welcome the holidays with epic events right in the community. In addition to these seasonal celebrations, the Department of Recreation, Natural Resources, and Culture also provides Trentonians with state of the art recreational centers, parks, play spaces, and more. For more information about additional upcoming events and community celebrations, visit the City of Trenton’s website, linked here: Dept. of Rec. – Trenton.

Should you have any questions before the lighting ceremony, contact the Department of Recreation, Natural Resources, and Culture at 609-989-3635 for assistance. The Capital City’s lights will be shining extra bright this night, so be certain to mark your calendars today for a fun-filled celebration. Happy Hanukkah!

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