Chabad North and South celebrate Chanukah

Chanukah is a very festive time for Chabad of South Orlando. There is fun for all ages, starting with the Grand Family Festival on Sunday, Dec. 6 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Chabad Center of Jewish Life, 7347 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando. The festivities include a live rock band, extreme trampoline stunt show (5 p.m.), a photo booth, food, crafts and raffles. The highlight of the even will be the Grand Menorah lighting at 5:45 p.m.

The even is free (nominal cost for food concessions).

On the eighth night of Chanukah, Dec. 13, Chabad will host the South Orlando Car Menorah Parade with 70 cars displaying menorahs. The line-up at Chabad Center of Jewish Life, is at 5:30 p.m. with departure at 6 p.m. heading toward The Outlets at 5135 International Drive. This joyous occasion includes music and dancing, latkes, and stretch Hummer rides for children.

To join the parade and to reserve a menorah for your car, call 407-354-3660 or email office@jewishorlando.com

South Orlando isn’t the only area to have Chanukah festivities. Chabad Lubavitch of Greater Orlando will host a Chanukah movie night and Menorah Lighting on Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. at Secret Lake Park, 200 N. Triplet Lake Drive, Casselberry.

Bring blankets or chairs (and wear Pajamas if you like!) Donuts and hot chocolate will be served. The cost is $10 per person; $36 family special.

On Friday, Dec. 11, Chabad will host a Chanukah Shabbat Dinner with a five-course meal. Menoral lighting will be at 5 p.m. and Shabbat candles lighting at 5:12 p.m. Cost is $25, adults; 415, children (10 and under). Reservations can be made at http://www.chabadorlando.org or call 407-644-2500.

As a closing to Chanukah, on Dec. 13, at 5:30 p.m. celebrate Chanukah on the Park at Central Park on Park Ave. in Winter Park. After the Grand Menorah Lighting, entertainment will be provided by the Jewish Academy of Orlando and JCC-Kids singers, a comedy ventriloquist, Chassidic dancers and Jewish rock music. Food will be available for purchase. The evening will end with a Finale Laser Light show.

This Chanukah event and celebration is free of charge and open to the entire Orlando community, regardless of affiliation, race or creed.