Community Corner
Hanukkah 2012 in Mount Vernon
Celebrate the Festival of Lights in Mount Vernon with fun events and delicious recipes.
This year, Hanukkah begins on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 8, and ends a week later on Sunday, Dec. 16.
According to Chabad.org, Hanukkah starts on the Hebrew calendar date of 25 Kislev and lasts for eight days. For those who aren't attuned to the Jewish calendar, that translates to sundown on Saturday, Dec. 8.
Celebrate Hanukkah at the following synagogues in the Alexandria area. Be sure to check their websites for dates and times of services and events:
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Agudas Achim Congregation, Alexandria
Beth El Hebrew Congregation, Alexandria
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Chabad Lubavitch, Alexandria
Congregation Etz Hayim, Arlington
Temple B'nai Shalom, Fairfax Station
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the story of the Maccabean Revolt against Syrian rulers in present day Israel 2,300 years ago. The Maccabees wanted to rededicate Jerusalem's main temple but had only enough oil to kindle the Eternal Light for one day. The oil lasted for eight days, according to the story, and the holiday of Hanukkah was born.
Today, Jews generally celebrate by gathering together with family, lighting one candle on the menorah each of the eight nights, playing dreidel and eating special holiday foods such as potato latkes and babka.
Tell us: If you observe Hanukkah, what are your plans?
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