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Lighting of the World's Largest Menorah

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Lighting of the World's Largest Menorah

Midtown

59th Street and 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10020

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Lighting of the World's Largest Menorah Description

The miracle of Hanukkah takes on even greater significance for kids as they look upon the 32-foot, 4,000-pound, golden candelabra that grandly takes the spotlight near Central Park on the corner of 5th Avenue and 59th Street. The celebration begins at 5:30 p.m. on December 4 and continues through December 11. Hailed as the world's largest menorah, the wicks (actually oil lamps) are lit each night with the assistance of a crane. Folk dancing, live music, and sweet sufganiyot (holiday jelly doughnuts) add to the festive air.

Holiday Attraction
Roadside Landmark

Kid Tips

Toddlers & Pre-K: Get kids in the spirit of Hanukkah by creating Hanukkah paper cones in advance.

School-Age Kids: In addition to the sufganiyot, other traditional Hanukkah foods will be available for purchase. If kids are hesitant about trying foods they may be unfamiliar with, start with latke (also called livivot) -- fried potato pancakes.

Planning Notes

Earlier on Friday, later on Saturday. In accordance with Jewish law, the candelabra will be lit at 3:45 p.m. on Friday (before the Sabbath starts) and at 8:30 on Saturday evening (when the Sabbath ends).
Take a ride. The candelabra is located near where the Central Park carriages line up, and just after sundown is a lovely time to take a ride through the park.
Hanukkah art program. Head to the Jewish Museum (1109 5th Avenue at 92nd Street) for their Hanukkah Art Extravaganza on December 21 from noon until 4 p.m. Musical group Ben Rudnick & Friends will perform, kids can create Hanukkah-themed art, listen to holiday stories, and view the museum's famous collection of Hanukkah lamps (free with museum admission).
Hanukkahthon. Among other events (check their website for details) the Children's Galleries for Jewish Culture (515 W. 20th Street, Suite 4E) will host its Hanukkahthon December 25 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The celebration includes interactive exhibits, hands-on art projects, a treasure hunt, prizes, and music.