Staff report
Olde Town Arvada — On the 1st night of Chanukah – Thursday December 10, Chabad of NW Metro Denver will lead two back to back public Hanukkah menorah lightings at Olde Town Arvada at 6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. The second menorah lighting is to allow for additional guests to attend, as each event will be capped at 40 people to allow for proper social distancing. While the scope of the ceremony will be limited amid Colorado’s ongoing coronavirus emergency, the lights will shine forth as brightly as ever. Reservations are required at www.COJewish.com/arvada
The program will include a juggler, music, goodies and traditional holiday fare of latkahs and donuts and a photo opportunity to take a photo at Judah the Maccabee and with the Dreidel Man. Food will be individually packaged.
This year’s menorah lighting is done with the recognition of the crucial need for a message of hope during what for many is a very difficult time. Chabad of NW Metro Denver will also distribute menorahs, candles, and Hanukkah-at-home kits to those celebrating at home.
“The menorah serves as a symbol of light and hope for us today amidst the darkness of the pandemic, as it did for generations before us,” said Rabbi Benjy Brackman. “The flames of the menorah shine out into the night, reminding us that even when confronted with much darkness, a tiny light can dispel it all. Another act of goodness and kindness, another act of light, can make all the difference.”
The covid-safe menorah lighting is the latest of many innovative programs created in response to these unique times by Chabad of NW Metro Denver, including Passover Seders-to-go, Rosh Hashanah shofar in parks, and Shabbat-in-a-box deliveries and Thanksgiving Dinners to those homebound.
To ensure everyone is safe, the menorah lighting will be very limited, with all participants distanced and wearing masks to ensure the outdoor socially distanced event is safe.
Throughout the NW Metro Denver, Chabad of NW Metro Denver will be organizing several giant menorah displays and public menorah lightings, menorah parades and more]. For more information visit www.COJewish.com/Hanukkah
