A Guide to Hanukkah Festivities and Menorah Lightings Across San DiegoCounty

Hanukkah celebrations begin at sundown Wednesday and continue through Jan. 2. The Jewish festival, sometimes called the Festival of Lights, hearkens back to the restoration of Jerusalem and the rededication of the Second Temple in the 2nd century. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, commemorating the miracle of a one-day supply of lamp oil that lasted eight days. Candles are lighted each night in a special candelabra called a Hanukkah Menorah that holds nine candles. Here are some community celebrations:

Menorah lightings are part of Hanukkah celebrations across the county. U-T files

CHULA VISTA

Hanukkah at Sesame Place: Hanukkah festivities will be from Dec. 26-31 at Sesame Place, 2052 Entertainment Circle. There will be a Menorah Candle Lighting Ceremony followed by a Dance Party with Sesame Street friends and Hanukkah Music at Big Bird’s Wave Pool Lawn. Visitors can play a game of dreidel with Sesame Street friends and win Hanukkah gelt and gather around Big Bird’s nest for a Hanukkah-themed story time. A Hanukkah Scavenger Hunt will be offered; visitors can pick up a free Scavenger Hunt map and go on a hunt throughout the park to find all the items and possibly win a prize. Festivities are included with admission. For event times, visit sesameplace.com

SAN DIEGO

Hanukkah and Menorah Lighting: A public menorah lighting will be at 5 p.m. Thursday in the Central Promenade at Liberty Station to commemorate the first night of Hanukkah. The free, family-friendly event will include music, live entertainment and the traditional lighting of the menorah. The event is hosted by The Chabads of Downtown San Diego and Pacific Beach, Liberty Station. Visit chabaddowntown.com Hanukkah display: SeaWorld San Diego’s holiday celebration runs through Jan. 5 and includes a Hanukkah display to celebrate the Jewish holiday. There will be menorah lightings, holiday decor and Hanukkah music Visit seaworldsandiego.com Hanukkah Festival: Seaport Village is partnering with the Chabads of Downtown San Diego to host family-friendly Hanukkah festivities from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 28 in the lighthouse district, including live music, festive performers and the traditional lighting of the menorah. Visit Seaportvillage.com.

Written by Linda McIntosh | December 21, 2024 | San Diego Union-Tribune

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