Hanukkah is approaching, and New Yorkers are gearing up for a festive time, often dubbed Happy Challah Day.
This celebration, while sometimes overshadowed by Christmas festivities, holds its own significance as the Festival of Lights begins at sunset on Sunday, December 14, and wraps up at sunset on Monday, December 22. There are numerous events planned to honor this joyful Jewish occasion.
Let’s highlight a few must-see activities happening this season.
World’s Largest Menorah
Two menorahs—one in Manhattan and another in Brooklyn—will compete for the title of “world’s largest,” lighting up their respective boroughs starting this weekend.
The official title, awarded by Guinness World Records back in 2006, belongs to a striking 32-foot-tall, 4,000-pound menorah situated in Midtown’s Grand Army Plaza at 5th Avenue and 59th Street. Meanwhile, a competing menorah in Brooklyn also claims a height of 32 feet, but the exact measurements are debated; it could be just slightly taller. However, a representative from Guinness clarified that height is measured without considering the candles.
The lighting schedule for the Manhattan Menorah is as follows:
- December 14-18, December 21: 5:30 p.m.
- December 19: 3:45 p.m.
- December 20: 8:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, Brooklyn’s menorah will light up on these dates:
- December 14 and 21: 5 p.m.
- December 15-18: 6 p.m.
- December 19: 3:30 p.m.
- December 20: 7:15 p.m.
On December 14, a kickoff concert featuring the group Pumpidisa will start at 4 p.m. before the lights come on, along with live music, delicious latkes, and gifts for kids every night.
Location: Grand Army Plaza, Midtown; Grand Army Park on Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn.
Shine at Hudson Yards
On December 15, a menorah lighting event called Shine at Hudson Yards will take place at around 4:30 p.m.
This celebration, organized by Wells Fargo along with Chabad of Midtown, will feature a daily illumination at sunset. Following the ceremony, visitors can enjoy various holiday festivities, including a charming light display and a hot chocolate pop-up nearby.
When: December 15-22; Where: 11th Street and Hudson Boulevard.
Menorah Lighting at Seaport
The event is free, but RSVP is recommended.
December 14 at 3 p.m. Location: Heineken River Deck (Pier 17, 89 South St.)
Hanukkah on Ice
On Tuesday, December 16, visitors to Central Park can skate during the Hanukkah on Ice event at Ullman Rink from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Tickets cost $35 until December 13 and increase to $40 afterward. The admission includes skating, food, drinks, and features a live DJ along with the menorah lighting. Children under 2 skate for free.
Date: December 16 at 6 p.m. Location: Wolman Rink | 830 Fifth Avenue.
Matzo Ball 2025
If you’re Jewish and single, the annual Matzo Ball event offers a chance to mingle on Christmas Eve. Known as “America’s No. 1 Jewish Singles Holiday Party,” it’s a lively gathering full of chatting and dancing, attracting those seeking connection.
Designed for those aged 21 and over, the event kicks off at 10 p.m. on December 24 and runs until 4 a.m. on Christmas Day. Tickets are priced at $55, with VIP options available.
Date: December 24 at 10 p.m. Location: Musica | 637 W. 50th St.
The Jazzka Project
The Jazzka Project will offer a unique holiday celebration, reinventing classic songs. This performance on December 14 will showcase cheerful renditions of familiar tunes.
Date: December 14 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Location: Globe New York | 125 McDougall Street.
“Jump Off the Roof”
Elana Pollin performs “Jumping Off the Roof,” a witty take on the classic “Fiddler on the Roof” from a female perspective, exploring the character’s journey.
Date: December 13-15 at 3:30 p.m. Location: Triad Theater | 158 West 72nd Street.
The Eight Nights of Hanukkah with Yo La Tengo
Indie rock band Yo La Tengo will perform their annual Hanukkah concert at Bowery Ballroom, a tradition almost two decades strong. Expect a variety of songs each night as they celebrate from December 14 to 21.
Date: December 14-21 at 7:30 p.m. Location: 6 Delancey Street.
Zamir Choral Foundation Hanukkah Concert
On December 13, the Zamir Chorale, acclaimed across North America, will join with Zamir Noded for a concert led by Maestro Matthew Lazar, featuring songs celebrating Jewish independence and hope.
Date: December 13 at 8 p.m. Location: Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center | 129 W. 67th St.
The Great Hanukkah Donut Duel 2025
The competition for the “Golden Donut Trophy,” known as the ultimate showdown for the best Hanukkah treat, will take place on December 16 at The Moxy Williamsburg.
Guests can sample creative donuts from top chefs and vote for their favorites. Tickets can be purchased within certain price ranges.
Date: December 16 at 7 p.m. Location: The Moxy Williamsburg | 353 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn.
Hanukkah Meal Options in NYC
Besides the festivities, various eateries in the city are offering delicious options for Hanukkah. Here’s a sampling for food lovers.
mama mezze
Chef Einat Admony’s Mama Mezze is known for its distinctive latkes paired with apple sour cream.
Location: 1123 Broadway.
acadia
Acadia will serve traditional latkes and a selection of toppings from December 14 to 22.
Location: 101 W. 57th St.
Russ & Daughters
At Russ & Daughters, patrons can indulge in freshly made latkes, available with various toppings.
Locations include: 179 E. Houston Street, 127 Orchard Street, 502 W. 34th St., 141 Flushing Avenue.
Gertie
Gerties will prepare latkes with various toppings, ensuring a unique taste experience.
Location: 602 Vanderbilt Avenue, Brooklyn.
12 Chairs Cafe
From December 15-22, 12 Chairs Cafe will feature latkes with both classic and modern toppings.
Locations include: 56 McDougall Street, 342 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn.
Mishi
Located in Williamsburg, Mishi takes a twist on tradition, offering latkes paired with unique Italian flavors.
Location: 329 Kent Avenue.
Levant
Head to Levant for sweet potato latkes, an innovative spin on a classic dish.
Location: 361 Graham Avenue.
Edith’s
Edith’s features a variety of latke dishes that mix tradition with creativity for a memorable meal.
Location: 495 Lorimer Street.
Miriam
This season, Miriam will offer gluten-free chickpea latkes, along with homemade raspberry sufganiyot and a customizable latke experience.
Locations include: 300 Amsterdam Avenue, 79 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn, 140 7th Avenue South.
Misnon
All locations of Misnon will feature potato latkes from December 14-22, complete with traditional dips.
Locations include: 435 W. 15th St., 30 Rockefeller Plaza, 601 Lexington Avenue, 20 Hudson Yards, 2nd Floor, 1410 Broadway.
Hank Schwartz’s Delicatessen & Mouthwatering
This Jersey City deli is planning a unique twist for Hanukkah, presenting a “Feast of Smoked and Cured Fish” on the last night that includes various artisanal offerings.
Options will be inspired by Christmas Eve traditions, featuring an array of smoked and cured fish.
