Jewish Communities Nationwide Celebrate First Night of Hanukkah Amid Rising Tensions

Public menorah lightings held across the U.S. as communities stand defiant in the face of ongoing Israel-Hamas war and increased antisemitism.

Jewish communities across the United States marked the first night of Hanukkah with public menorah lightings, despite the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and a rise in antisemitism.
In Massachusetts, the Jewish community expressed their determination to show pride in their identity and hope for peace, with increased police presence at public celebrations.
In New York, the world's largest menorah was lit in Manhattan, a symbol of resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
In Baltimore, the Jewish community embraced the Hanukkah spirit, with the Baltimore Jewish Council ensuring adequate security for public celebrations.
The first night of Hanukkah was particularly poignant as it marked exactly two months since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.