Chanukah This Year Is History In The Making

This is quite amazing. This year for the first time in 95 years we will be celebrating Chanukah on Thanksgiving (the last time was in 1918) and the next time won't be for another 57 years (2070). But actually this is the last time that Chanukah will be celebrated before Thanksgiving.

Although the first day of Chanukah this year is the same as Thanksgiving, however, Thanksgiving does not start until midnight but Chanukah begins at nightfall a few hours before Thanksgiving.

Now the last time that happened was 114 years ago, in 1899. and for reasons known to people who are well versed in calendars, this will never happen again. 

In 2070 Chanukah will begin the night that Thanksgiving ends, so technically Chanukah will be on Thanksgiving. So this year is historical.

Let's make history by making this the grandest, happiest, most joyous and the brightest Chanukah for ourselves, our families and the world around us, by lighting our own personal menorahs and by joining Chanukah celebrations.

All of our lives could use more light and goodness.

Can you imagine bringing in this wonderful and special holiday celebration by joining together with 100's of adults and children from all walks of life and in a public place?

Actually you can do just that at 1000's of public Menorah lightings around the world.

If you are going to be in or near Mission Viejo on Wednesday, November 27, you can join us as we kick off this historic Chanukah with the lighting of the largest and most beautiful Menorah in Mission Viejo at the "four corners" on the corner of La Paz and Chrisanta.

The festivities begin at 5pm with latkes, hot drinks, Chanukah face art, dreidel cookie decorating, gifts for all the children, local dignitaries, Judah the Maccabee and music.

Bring your family and bring your friends regardless of their background or affiliation. This is a night of unity when all people can come together and give thanks for the great blessings in our lives, for the miracle of our people on Chanukah and for the blessing of the United States of America. 

Bassie and I look forward to celebrating with you. 

Rabbi Zalman & Bassie Marcus 

P.s. To learn more about Chanukah click here

To learn more about Chanukah and Thanksgiving click here