PFLUGERVILLE, Texas — It's almost time for Hanukkah, the annual "festival of lights" celebrated by the Jewish community. To celebrate the 8-day event, some Central Texas cities are holding menorah lighting ceremonies and other community gatherings.
This year, Hanukkah begins on Thursday, Dec. 7, and runs through Friday, Dec. 15. The holiday is traditionally celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special blessings, songs and foods like latkes and sufganiyot.
On Dec. 7, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the Buda community will gather for the third annual public lighting of the menorah at the Gazebo on Main Street. Rabbi Cantor Marie Betcher, a former senior chaplain for the Austin Police Department, will chant the blessings as the menorah is lit. The event will also feature music, food and children's games.
Up to the northeast, the Chabad of Round Rock/Pflugerville will hold an event on Dec. 11 at the menorah on Main Street in Downtown Pflugerville. The City of Pflugerville said the event "fosters a sense of unity and community, embracing the cultural richness of the holiday season" and participants will "share the joy of the Hanukkah story, promoting understanding and appreciation among the diverse attendees."