Hanukkah — the eight-day Festival of Lights — begins at sunset on December 15, followed by eight days of outdoor events, menorah lightings, and, of course, feasting on holiday foods like potato latkes and doughnuts fried in oil. Here, we’ve rounded up eight ways to celebrate Hanukkah in NoVA and DC.
Hanukkah Bar
Through December 31, times vary
Ivy and Coney — Logan Circle’s friendly neighborhood bar — is all decked out this December to host Hanukkah. Pastel blues and whites dominate the holiday decor, and the fun ramps up in earnest as Hanukkah begins. The bar will have nightly menorah lightings, small prizes, and delicious bar-style bites that won’t break the bank. On December 25, the bar will also host a Chinese food and movie night. 1537 Seventh St. NW, Washington, DC, prices vary
National Menorah
December 14, 3:30–5:30 p.m.
Join a thrumming crowd of thousands for the country’s largest menorah lighting celebration on the National Mall. The event includes celebrity appearances, lively music, and a whole host of congressional members and other dignitaries in attendance. RSVP online so organizers know how many attendees to expect. 1776 Ellipse Rd. NW, Washington, DC, free
Chanukah on Ice
December 14, 5–6:30 p.m.
This family-friendly event features ice skating at the Fairfax Ice Arena and holiday-themed crafts. Munch on potato latkes, decorate a tie-dye donut, and watch the menorah lighting for Hanukkah’s first day of celebration. 3779 Pickett Rd., Fairfax, $8
Drinks & Dreidels
December 14, 6 p.m.
Calling all young Jewish professionals in NoVA! Start Hanukkah with the Drinks & Dreidels soiree, hosted by the Young Jewish Professionals of Alexandria-Arlington. Dig into the catered Chinese buffet, sip delicious cocktails, and enjoy warm company as the first menorah candle is lit. This event is geared toward Jewish professionals in their 20s and 30s, and registration is required. 1307 N. Highland St., Arlington, $30 before December 8, $34 after December 8
Chanukah Festival – Old Town Alexandria
December 15, 6 p.m.
Celebrate Chanukah in Old Town Alexandria. The Grand Menorah, located on the steps of the Lyceum Theatre, stands 6-feet tall, and to commemorate Hanukkah’s second night, enjoy hot cocoa, chocolate gelt, and delicious potato latkes. While the event is free, online registration is required. 201 S. Washington St., Alexandria, free
Clarendon Menorah Lighting
December 16, 6 p.m.
Experience Clarendon with a distinct Hanukkah twist. This year’s menorah clocks in at 9-feet tall and will have two candles lit as the holiday just begins. Enjoy warm drinks, more potato latkes, and live music at this outdoor event. 1307 N. Highland St., Arlington, free
Annual Hanukkah Party
December 17, 6–8:30 p.m.
Explore the National Museum of American Jewish Military History at this annual Hanukkah celebration. Munch on jelly donuts, latkes, and chocolate gelt while enjoying live music from Machaya Klezmer Band after a guided tour of how Jewish Americans in the military continued the traditions of the Maccabees. 1811 R St. NW, Washington, DC, free
Chanukah Story Trail and Gelt Drop
December 21, 4–5 p.m.
This family-friendly celebration includes a walk through Lincoln Park’s story trail listening to the story and soundtrack of “If Candles Could Speak.” After the walk, gelt will be dropped from the top of a firetruck before a menorah lighting and singing Chanukah songs. 11th St. NE, Washington, DC, free
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
