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Dallas and Austin Hanukkah Gatherings Go Forward Under Tight Security

Texas Hanukkah ceremonies proceeded under visible police presence with community protection, reflecting resolve after the Bondi Beach massacre.

Rabbi Yosef Posner, from left, Rabbi Yochanan Posner, and Rabbi Sholom Raices look at the just-lit ceremonial menorah after Skokie Chabad organized a Hanukkah menorah lighting and gelt drop at the Memorial Park at Lincoln and Oakton Dec. 16, 2025. (Chaya Mishulovin)
Image of the Dallas Jewish community gathered at Kyle Warren Park to celebrate Hanukkah and light the menorah.
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Overview

  • Hundreds gathered at Dallas’s Klyde Warren Park for the fifth-night menorah lighting hosted by Intown Chabad, which organizers described as an expression of resilience.
  • Dallas authorities deployed police officers, SWAT units, private guards and Shomer Texas volunteers, with organizers noting both overt and covert patrols throughout the crowd.
  • Some families skipped the Dallas event out of fear, while others said showing up felt essential to community unity and identity.
  • The Texas Capitol menorah lighting in Austin was moved indoors for security reasons, with Governor Greg Abbott saying safeguards were enhanced to keep celebrations peaceful and respectful.
  • Coverage linked the events to the Bondi Beach shooting that killed at least 15 people, with Texans noting Rabbi Liebel Lazaroff remains in the ICU as relatives described his efforts to aid a wounded officer.