Celebrating Light: Harrison Marks Hanukkah with Meaning and Merriment

As the eight nights of Hanukkah unfold, the Town of Harrison joined Jewish families across the world in honoring the Festival of Lights. We extend heartfelt greetings to our neighbors observing this sacred holiday and wish joy, peace, and warmth to all who celebrate.

Hanukkah is rooted in history, recalling the second-century BCE rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. It commemorates the courage of the Maccabees who resisted religious oppression and reclaimed their freedom to worship. Central to the observance is the miracle of the oil—where a single day’s supply burned for eight nights—symbolizing perseverance and hope.

A central tradition is the nightly lighting of the menorah, adding one candle each evening until all eight (plus the helper candle, the shamash) glow in succession. Families gather to recite blessings, share stories, enjoy classic foods such as latkes and sufganiyot, and delight in children spinning dreidels or receiving gelt—handed out as coins or gifts, fostering joy and togetherness.

In Harrison, the holiday spirit was visible at the community’s annual Christmas Tree and, for the first time a simultaneous Menorah lighting celebration at Library Park, aka the Franklin D. Roosevelt Library Park. A Christmas Tree Lighting was originally scheduled for December 9^th, 2025, and rescheduled for December 15^th, 2025, which turned out not to be any warmer than the original Christmas Tree Lighting day. The shifting of the original Christmas ended up with a simultaneous Christmas Tree lighting and a Menorah lighting.

As we reflect on these age-old traditions, we draw inspiration from Hanukkah’s enduring themes—unity, resilience, and light overcoming darkness. These timeless values resonate deeply within the Harrison community, where neighbors extend kindness and support throughout the year. Some residents are still waiting for the light to overcome the darkness.  But all good things come to those who continue to work towards the light.

In this season of hope, we encourage all residents to take time to cherish family and friends, honor treasured customs, and reach out to those in need. It’s through these simple acts of community and compassion that we strengthen the bonds that make Harrison truly special.

Harrison’s rich cultural tapestry—woven from diverse traditions and stories—makes our town a place we are proud to call home. As we continue to celebrate Hanukkah and look forward to the promise of the new year, we send our warmest wishes to all. May your homes be bright with laughter, light, and love.

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