As the days get shorter and the nights longer, we approach the divine festival of lights in the Jewish faith known as Hanukkah. It’s the perfect time to celebrate with loved ones, and we’ve rounded up all of the Hanukkah events happening in North Jersey. Plus, we also included a few places that are offering holiday treats. Whether celebrating with a family with toddlers or a group of friends, there’s something for everyone listed below. Here’s wishing everyone a Happy Hanukkah!
Events
8 Nights of Hanukkah with Yo La Tengo
November 28th – December 5th | 7:30PM
Indie Rock Band ‘Yo La Tengo’ will bring its traditional Hanukkah Run to Bowery Ballroom in New York City over the eight nights of the holiday starting Sunday, November 28 to Sunday, December 5. This tradition originally started in 2001 at Maxwell’s in Hoboken and continued through 2012 with a pause since then – until this season. Each concert will feature a surprise opener and comedic performance before the trio takes the stage. For more information click here.
Hoboken Menorah Lighting + Chanukah Gelt Drop
November 29th | 5PM
Hoboken City officials and the Chabad Jewish Center of Hoboken and Jersey City on Monday for the annual menorah lighting and Chanukah gelt drop. The festivities will take place outside City Hall. Learn more here.
Montclair Chanukah Fest + Grand Menorah Lighting
November 29th | 5.30PM
This is an evening featuring Israeli-American rapper and songwriter Nissim Black live in concert. Witness the lighting of a giant, nine-foot Menorah and relish treats from ‘The Humble Toast’ kosher food truck. For more information click here.
Read More: Holiday Pop-Up Markets + Events in North Jersey | 2021
Roseland Menorah Lighting Ceremony 2021
November 29th | 6:15PM
Mayor James R. Spango and the Roseland Borough Council are hosting a community Menorah Lighting, music, singing, and refreshments in Roseland. For more information click here.
Community Hanukkah Party (Ages 5 + under)
November 30th | 5:00PM – 6:00PM
United Synagogue of Hoboken is hosting a community party at Church Square Park in Hoboken. For more information click here.
Virtual Shalom Baby Chanukah
December 1st | 6:00PM – 7:00PM
A virtual Chanukah event for families with a special guest who is a teacher and recording artist. Rachel Altounian from Tkiya will be doing Chanukah stories, music, dancing, puppets, and more. For more information, click here.
The Annual Chanukah Soiree
December 1st | 7:30PM
The Chabad Young Professionals of Hoboken & Jersey City community is hosting an event for young Jewish adults at W Hotel. The event includes the Menorah Lighting, Open Bar, Sushi Bar, Latke & Donut Station. For more information click here.
Christmas Tree + Menorah Lighting Ceremony in Jersey City
December 2nd | 6:30PM – 7PM
Mayor Fulop and HDSID present the Annual Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting Ceremony in Jersey City, along with a visit from Santa Claus and sweet treats for all. For more information click here.
SOPAC: The Hanukkah Holiday Concert
December 2nd | 7:30PM
SOPAC’s Nefesh Mountain Hanukkah holiday concert will be presented at Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel in South Orange, NJ. Nefesh Mountain melds elements of Americana, Appalachian Bluegrass, Celtic Folk, and Jewish music. Together with their band, this Montclair-based couple Doni Zasloff and Eric Lindberg have given a voice to Jewish-American culture. For more information, click here.
Friends Trivia “The One with the Holiday Armadillo”
December 21st | 7.30PM
This Friends trivia night will consist of holiday-related episodes and happenings across all 10 seasons with a round dedicated to the episode, “The One with the Holiday Armadillo.” For more information click here.
Treats
Breads Bakery | 18E 16th Street, NY
Latkes and sufganiyot are an integral part of celebrating Hanukkah. Pre-ordering will be available soon. Learn more here.
Michaeli Bakery Sufganiyah | 115A Division Street, NY
Michaeli Bakery in the Lower East Side, NYC is back with its special Hanukkah delights in a wide range of flavors. Find out more here.
See More: Your Guide to Buying Pre-Made Thanksgiving Side Dishes in Hoboken + Jersey City
Susan Lawrence Catering | 26 North Greeley Avenue, NY
A menu consisting of more than twenty Hanukkah preparations including the famous potato latkes, chicken soup with matzo balls, and braised pot roast. For more information click here.
Liv Breads | 275, Essex Street, Milburn
Liv Breads gives the traditional sufganiyot a healthy twist by filling baked brioche buns with strawberry jam, dulce de leche, or Nutella. For more information click here.
