Join us at the Shul for a joyful, family-centered celebration as we welcome the first night of Hanukkah together! This gathering is designed to delight community members of all ages, with activities, food, and shared traditions that will brighten the beginning of the Festival of Lights.
We’ll enjoy a community potluck dinner, and we invite everyone to bring a favorite Hanukkah dish to share—latkes, sufganiyot, or any other dish.
We will also play Hanukkah-themed bingo with fun prizes. If you have a small item you’d like to contribute as a prize, please reach out—we’d be grateful!
One highlight of the night will be an impromptu Hanukkah play, where our young participants (and any enthusiastic adults!) can jump in to help tell the story of the Maccabees. We’ll reenact the bravery of Judah and his siblings, the restoration of the Temple, and the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days—all with simple props and lots of imagination.
As the sun sets, we will light the first candle together, sharing blessings and songs. Bring your hanukkiah and candles!
In the spirit of Hanukkah and tikkun olam, we are also collecting donations to help stock the Ukiah Public Library’s free pantry. This pantry is incredibly popular and often runs low, so contributions make a real difference. If you’re able, please bring an item(s) from their list such as:
Non-perishable foods: canned meals, soups, beans, tuna, pasta, rice, peanut butter, oatmeal,
Individual snacks: trail mix, crackers, applesauce cups, fruit cups, granola bars, packaged protein drinks & bars
Dog & Cat food
Personal care items: Personal size hygiene supplies, combs/brushes, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, hand can openers
The evening will be a wonderfully joyous and energetic way to begin Hanukkah—full of light, laughter, and community connection.
If you can help with setup or cleanup, please let us know. Your support is always appreciated.